If you're craving a warm, hearty dish that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, look no further than this Easy Loaded Potato Soup! Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a quick and satisfying meal, this creamy soup is loaded with flavor and topped with all your favorite fixings. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a deliciously comforting dish that serves six—ideal for sharing with family or enjoying as leftovers. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a bowl of bliss? Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to delight your taste buds and warm your soul!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Finely chop the onion, preparing it for sautéing and adding flavor to the soup base.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot with the sautéed onions. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the potatoes are mostly covered by the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer the potatoes until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Once potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some of the potatoes, creating a thicker, creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.
- Slowly stir in the milk, creating a smooth and creamy consistency. Heat the soup gently, being careful not to let it boil after adding the milk.
- Reduce heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
- Stir in the sour cream, which will add richness and a tangy flavor to the soup.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and optional toppings like crispy bacon bits.
- Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. They break down nicely, giving your soup a creamy consistency.
- Sauté the Onions Well: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Cooking the onions until they’re translucent enhances the flavor base of your soup.
- Uniform Potato Sizes: Cut your potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly. This prevents some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash more of the potatoes after they’ve softened. For a thinner consistency, add a bit more chicken broth or milk.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your soup with toppings! Consider adding crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your loaded potato soup with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
