Creamy Dreamy Loaded Potato Soup II: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

Loaded potato soup is a classic comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a warm and satisfying meal. This recipe, “Loaded Potato Soup II,” takes the traditional flavors and elevates them with a few key ingredients and techniques, resulting in a richer, creamier, and even more flavorful soup. Get ready to indulge in potato perfection!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Ultimate Comfort Food:** This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. The creamy texture, savory bacon, and cheesy goodness create an irresistible combination.
* **Easy to Make:** While it tastes incredibly decadent, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. Add different toppings, adjust the spices, or use different types of cheese.
* **Perfect for Meal Prep:** Loaded potato soup is even better the next day! It’s a great option for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This soup is always a hit at gatherings and potlucks. Everyone will rave about its rich flavor and creamy texture.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Potatoes:** 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed. Yukon Gold potatoes lend a naturally creamy texture, while Russet potatoes provide a more classic potato flavor. You can also use a combination of both.
* **Bacon:** 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled. The bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. Use your favorite type of bacon, such as thick-cut or applewood-smoked.
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. The onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced. Garlic enhances the savory notes of the soup and adds a pungent aroma.
* **Chicken Broth:** 6 cups chicken broth. The chicken broth provides the base for the soup and adds a rich, savory flavor. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
* **Heavy Cream:** 1 cup heavy cream. The heavy cream is essential for creating the soup’s signature creamy texture. You can substitute half-and-half for a slightly lighter option, but the soup won’t be as rich.
* **Sour Cream:** 1/2 cup sour cream. The sour cream adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided. The cheddar cheese adds a sharp, cheesy flavor and melts beautifully into the soup. Use your favorite type of cheddar, such as sharp or mild.
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons butter. The butter adds richness and flavor to the soup base.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. The flour is used to create a roux, which helps to thicken the soup.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season the soup with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
* **Optional Toppings:** Chopped green onions, extra shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, sour cream, chives.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Potato masher or immersion blender (optional)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Cook the Bacon:** In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Crumble the bacon and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic:** In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Make the Roux:** Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is lightly browned. This creates a roux that will help to thicken the soup.
4. **Add the Chicken Broth:** Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. **Add the Potatoes:** Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. **Mash or Blend the Soup (Optional):** If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash or blend the potatoes. Leave some chunks for a heartier texture.
7. **Add the Cream and Cheese:** Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through, but do not boil.
8. **Season and Serve:** Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.

## Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the soup will taste. Use fresh potatoes, good-quality bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese.
* **Don’t Overcook the Potatoes:** Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and ruin the texture of the soup. Cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
* **Don’t Boil After Adding Dairy:** Boiling the soup after adding the heavy cream and sour cream can cause them to curdle. Heat the soup gently until it is heated through.
* **Adjust the Thickness:** If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk to thin it out. If it is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** The toppings are what make loaded potato soup so fun and customizable. Experiment with different toppings to find your favorites.

## Variations

* **Spicy Loaded Potato Soup:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
* **Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup:** Add 1 cup of chopped broccoli florets to the soup along with the potatoes.
* **Sweet Potato Soup:** Substitute sweet potatoes for the Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes.
* **Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup:** Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon. Add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup:** This recipe can easily be adapted for the Instant Pot. Sauté the onion and garlic in the Instant Pot, then add the chicken broth, potatoes, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then quick release the pressure. Stir in the cream, cheese, and toppings.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.**
* **Pair with a salad for a light and refreshing meal.**
* **Serve as a starter for a larger meal.**
* **Pack in a thermos for a warm and comforting lunch.**

## Nutritional Information (approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (depending on toppings and ingredients)
* Fat: 30-40g
* Protein: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?**
A: While you can use milk, the soup won’t be as creamy. Half-and-half is a better substitute if you want a lighter option.

**Q: Can I freeze loaded potato soup?**
A: It’s not recommended to freeze loaded potato soup with dairy in it, as the texture can change upon thawing. However, you can freeze the soup *before* adding the cream and cheese. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup, then heat it up and add the dairy products.

**Q: How long does loaded potato soup last in the refrigerator?**
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, loaded potato soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

**Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?**
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby Jack.

**Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
A: Yes, you can. Sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Mash or blend the soup, then stir in the cream, cheese, and toppings.

## Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup II is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. With its creamy texture, savory bacon, and cheesy goodness, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a warm and satisfying bowl of potato perfection!

Enjoy!