Description
Hearty loaded potato soup brings comfort from American kitchens with creamy potatoes and classic toppings. Rich flavors blend smoothly, inviting you to savor each spoonful of this satisfying winter classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 1/2 pound bacon
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons chives
Liquid and Seasoning Base:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Fry bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add cubed potatoes and chicken broth to the skillet, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove approximately half the soup and carefully purée in a blender until smooth, creating a velvety consistency. Return the puréed portion back to the pot.
- Gradually stir in heavy cream or milk, whisking continuously to prevent separation. Incorporate shredded cheese and stir until completely melted and integrated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon pieces, chopped chives, and an additional sprinkle of cheese for extra richness.
Notes
- Achieve crispy bacon by cooking it in a cold skillet, gradually increasing heat to render fat perfectly.
- Prevent potato discoloration by submerging diced potatoes in cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Create a gluten-free version by using cornstarch instead of flour as a thickening agent and checking broth labels.
- Boost nutrition by adding roasted cauliflower or kale for extra vegetables without compromising the creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg