Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, a creamy and satisfying bowl of goodness. But it doesn't have to be complicated! This simple recipe delivers all the cheesy, bacony, potatoey goodness you crave without hours in the kitchen. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is easily adaptable to your taste and dietary needs.
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon Gold or russet work best)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup milk or cream (half-and-half works great too!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little kick
Toppings (choose your favorites!):
- Cooked bacon, crumbled
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chives, chopped
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend (Optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in Milk and Seasonings: Return the soup to the pot (if using a regular blender). Stir in the milk (or cream), salt, pepper, and paprika (and cayenne pepper, if using). Heat through gently, but do not boil.
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Serve and Load Up!: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. Crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream, and chives are all classic choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use leftover cooked potatoes?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked potatoes will significantly reduce the cooking time. Simply add them to the pot with the broth in step 2 and skip the simmering step. Just heat through and proceed with the rest of the recipe.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken the soup.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables to your liking! Diced carrots, celery, or corn would all complement the potatoes nicely. Add them along with the potatoes in step 2.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add fresh toppings just before serving.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free broth. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free if you have a gluten intolerance.
Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup:
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm potatoes.
- Use quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the soup will taste.
- Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try different cheeses, herbs, or even crispy fried onions.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.
This simple loaded potato soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
