Indulge in a savory, aromatic, tender, flavorful, and delicious bowl of comfort food with our Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup Recipe for Dinner. This creamy, dreamy soup is a staple for any dinner gathering, and we’re about to dive into the secrets behind its success.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out from the rest due to its perfectly balanced flavor profile, achieved by combining the natural sweetness of potatoes with the savory goodness of bacon, onions, and garlic. The addition of heavy cream and cheddar cheese gives the soup a rich, velvety texture that will leave you craving for more.
Key Ingredient Highlights
The star of the show is undoubtedly the potato, which provides a comforting, filling base for the soup. We also highlight the importance of using high-quality bacon, as it adds a smoky, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish. Finally, a blend of cheddar and Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth and umami flavor to the soup.
THE RECIPE CARD
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
This recipe serves 6-8 people and can be ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
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â–¢ 2 tablespoons butter
â–¢ 1 medium onion, diced
â–¢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
â–¢ 1 medium bacon, diced
â–¢ 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
â–¢ 1 cup chicken broth
â–¢ 1 cup heavy cream
â–¢ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
â–¢ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
â–¢ 1 teaspoon dried thyme
â–¢ Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Pro Tips
Avoid a lumpy soup by ensuring the potatoes are fully cooked and the soup is blended until smooth. If you notice any lumps, you can try blending the soup again or adding a little more cream to thin it out.
Prevent an underseasoned soup by tasting and adjusting the seasoning as you go. Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
Steer clear of overcooked potatoes by monitoring the cooking time and adjusting the heat as needed. If you notice the potatoes becoming too soft, you can try adding a little more broth to thin out the soup.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat the soup over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Gouda, to create a unique flavor profile. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary depending on the type of cheese used.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. However, be sure to check the ingredients of the chicken broth and bacon to ensure they are gluten-free.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious, comforting bowl of loaded potato soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to check out our other recipe for How to make the Creamiest Loaded Potato Soup for Dinner for more tips and tricks!
