Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup

Classic Old-Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup is the epitome of cozy, hearty comfort food. Creamy, rich, and brimming with the satisfying flavors of tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, this soup is a timeless favorite. Perfect for chilly days, casual family dinners, or a soul-warming lunch, it’s a dish that always hits the spot.

This soup captures the essence of traditional, homestyle cooking while being simple to prepare and easy to customize. Topped with a variety of garnishes like green onions, sour cream, and extra bacon, it transforms a humble bowl of soup into a restaurant-worthy delight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making enough to enjoy leftovers, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: A velvety texture with bold, satisfying flavors in every bite.
• Customizable: Tailor it to your tastes with a variety of toppings and mix-ins.
• Family-Friendly: A dish loved by kids and adults alike.
• One-Pot Meal: Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
• Comfort Food Classic: A nostalgic recipe that never goes out of style.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Additional crumbled bacon
• Croutons for texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon fat and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the onion and garlic mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged.
3. Add smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Base

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and 1/4 cup of the milk until smooth.
2. Stir the flour mixture into the pot, followed by the remaining milk and heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens slightly.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

1. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup partially, leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it completely. If using a countertop blender, blend the soup in small batches, then return it to the pot.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Bacon

1. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
2. Return half of the cooked bacon to the soup, reserving the rest for garnish.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes, such as sour cream, green onions, additional cheddar cheese, and the reserved bacon.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or biscuits for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Potatoes:

Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup due to their starchy, creamy texture, which helps thicken the broth naturally. Yukon gold potatoes can be used for a slightly buttery flavor and a smoother texture.

Bacon:

Bacon adds a smoky, savory element to the soup and serves as both an ingredient and a garnish. Thick-cut bacon works best for a meaty texture.

Dairy:

Whole milk and heavy cream provide the creamy base that makes this soup rich and indulgent. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk.

Cheese:

Sharp cheddar cheese is the perfect choice for its bold flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Technique Tips

1. Crisp the Bacon: Cooking the bacon until crispy enhances its flavor and creates a delicious garnish. Save the rendered fat to sauté the onions for added depth.
2. Cut Potatoes Evenly: Uniformly diced potatoes ensure even cooking and help achieve a consistent texture.
3. Blend to Your Preference: Use an immersion blender to control the texture, blending partially for a chunky soup or fully for a smooth, creamy consistency.
4. Thicken Gradually: Add the flour mixture slowly while stirring to avoid lumps and achieve the perfect thickness.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic and hearty presentation.
2. Individual Appetizer Portions: Offer the soup in small ramekins or mugs as part of a soup sampler for gatherings.
3. Loaded Soup Bar: Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and croutons so guests can customize their bowls.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooking can cause the potatoes to break down completely, resulting in a gluey texture.
• Season as You Go: Add salt and pepper at each step to build a well-rounded flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Vegetarian Version: Replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
3. Meat Lover’s Soup: Add diced ham or cooked sausage for an extra protein boost.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, though the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon reheating. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, adding a splash of milk or broth to refresh the consistency.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lighten the Dairy: For a lighter version of the soup without sacrificing its creamy texture, use low-fat milk or a mix of milk and chicken broth instead of heavy cream. Another excellent option is to substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream—it adds a creamy consistency along with a boost of protein and tangy flavor. Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can also work well as non-dairy alternatives, creating a lighter soup with a slightly nutty undertone. If you prefer a thicker soup without heavy cream, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch or a flour slurry (1 tablespoon flour mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken the base.

Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutrition and flavor of your potato soup by incorporating additional vegetables. Stir in leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added fiber, vitamins, and a pop of color. Diced carrots, celery, or zucchini are also great choices that blend seamlessly into the soup, enhancing its texture and nutritional profile. For a slightly sweeter touch, consider adding diced butternut squash or parsnips. These vegetables not only add depth to the flavor but also make the soup more vibrant and visually appealing.

Turkey Bacon Option: Swap out traditional pork bacon for turkey bacon to reduce saturated fat and calories while still delivering that beloved smoky, savory flavor. Turkey bacon crisps up nicely when cooked, making it an excellent garnish for the soup or a flavorful base for sautéing onions and garlic. If you prefer plant-based options, try using tempeh bacon or smoked coconut flakes for a similar texture and flavor. The smoky element is essential to achieving that comforting, “loaded” potato soup experience, so be sure to choose a substitute that complements the overall dish.

Add Whole Grains: For an extra healthy twist, serve the soup with whole-grain bread or sprinkle cooked quinoa or farro into the bowl for added fiber and protein. This simple addition makes the soup even more satisfying and nutritious, turning it into a balanced, complete meal.

Reduce Salt: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the salt levels to taste. Using fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill can add flavor naturally, reducing the need for additional salt. You can also enhance the flavor with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, which adds brightness and depth without extra sodium.

By incorporating these healthier adjustments, you can transform Classic Old-Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup into a nutritious and guilt-free option while preserving its comforting and indulgent essence.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Weeknight Dinner

Pair the soup with a green salad and garlic bread for a simple, satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Holiday Starter

Serve the soup as a festive appetizer for holiday meals, garnished with colorful toppings like parsley and red pepper flakes.

Potluck Favorite

Bring the soup in a slow cooker to keep it warm and let guests serve themselves. Provide a toppings bar with cheese, croutons, and bacon for added customization.

Special Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ensures even cooking and enough space for blending.
• Immersion Blender: Makes it easy to blend the soup directly in the pot.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup neatly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, Yukon gold and red potatoes work well for a slightly different texture and flavor.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used for a lighter version.

3. How do I avoid lumps in the soup?

Whisk the flour into the milk thoroughly before adding it to the pot, and stir constantly as the soup thickens.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk or almond milk as a substitute for the dairy, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

5. How can I make this soup thicker?

Blend more of the potatoes or add an extra tablespoon of flour to the milk mixture for a thicker consistency.

6. Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely. The flavors deepen over time, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Reheat gently before serving.

7. Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes, diced ham, cooked sausage, or shredded chicken make excellent additions for extra protein.

8. What pairs well with this soup?

Serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Classic Old-Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and flavorful. This nostalgic recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week. With endless customization options and its timeless appeal, this soup is a must-have in your recipe collection. Ready to create the ultimate bowl of comfort? Let’s get cooking!

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