Easy Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

The warmth of homemade loaded potato soup brings back fond memories of chilly evenings spent gathered around the table with family. I recall a time when my kids, weary from school, scampered into the kitchen, drawn by the aroma of simmering potatoes and melting cheese. Nothing felt more comforting than watching their smiles blossom as they filled their bowls with this creamy goodness.

This easy homemade loaded potato soup recipe transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy. Each spoonful combines the earthy flavors of potatoes with rich cheddar and a touch of tangy sour cream, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or any time you crave something delightful.

As you embark on this culinary journey, let the fragrant onion and garlic guide you through the first steps. The process meshes seamlessly with the excitement of watching the potatoes simmer to perfection, inviting everyone to share in a delicious experience. You’ll find that warmth in a bowl means more than just food—it’s about gathering, connecting, and celebrating life’s little moments with loved ones.

Easy Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

Fundamentals

Easy homemade loaded potato soup starts with a few essential ingredients. With just four medium potatoes, one onion, and two cloves of garlic, you create a hearty base that enhances every bite of this comforting dish. Ensure the potatoes are peeled and diced for better cooking.

Choosing between chicken or vegetable broth dictates the flavor profile. Opt for chicken broth for a richer taste, or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter version. A smooth blend of milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream lends creaminess and depth to the soup. Finally, season it well with salt and pepper to achieve a delightful balance that wakes up the palate.

Preparation/setup

Begin by gathering all necessary ingredients and equipment. You will need a large pot, a spatula for stirring, and a potato masher to achieve the desired creamy texture. This preparation speeds up the cooking process, making the experience more enjoyable.

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent. This initial step releases fragrant aromas that will set the tone for the dish. Keep an eye on the onions so they don’t brown. After these ingredients have married together, add the diced potatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, bringing everything to a lively boil.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bacon bits and green onions for topping

Directions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and broth, bringing to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
5. Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with bacon bits and green onions.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor

Technique

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in easy homemade loaded potato soup requires attention to a few techniques. When cooking the onions and garlic, remember to stir continuously. This ensures they don’t brown and instead become sweet and aromatic, enhancing the soup’s base.

For extra creaminess, mash some of the cooked potatoes. This creates a wonderful blend between chunky and smooth textures, providing a hearty feel in every spoonful. If you prefer a smoother soup, consider using an immersion blender for a silkier consistency.

Tips/tricks

Keep these handy tips in mind as you prepare your soup. First, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh potatoes and aromatics elevate the flavor significantly. Second, taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference, allowing the soup’s natural flavors to shine through.

If you desire additional depth, consider adding some freshly chopped herbs like thyme or chives. They add a bright note and balance the richness. Also, don’t hesitate to experiment with the cheese. Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can work beautifully as alternatives to cheddar.

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting results

To perfect your loaded potato soup, timing plays a crucial role. Ensure the potatoes cook until tender but still hold their structure for a satisfying bite. If you add cheese and sour cream too early, they may separate or curdle, affecting the final texture.

Also, allow the soup to simmer after adding cheese and cream. This step lets the flavors meld and improves the overall richness, ensuring nothing feels rushed.

Troubleshooting/variations

Even seasoned cooks encounter hiccups. If your soup appears overly thick, gradually stir in additional broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency. On the flip side, if the soup seems too watery, consider mashing more potato or simmering it longer to deepen the flavors.

For variations, try adding cooked chicken or veggies like carrots or peas for extra nutrition. You can easily customize the toppings as well, experimenting with crispy shallots or a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet twist.

Serving and Enjoying

Serving/presentation

The way you serve easy homemade loaded potato soup enhances the experience. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls, allowing the rich aroma to entice your guests. To elevate the presentation, add a dollop of sour cream in the center and sprinkle with crispy bacon bits and chopped green onions on top.

Pair with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that satisfies all ages.

Pairings/storage

Enjoying the soup with a side of garlic bread adds a nice crunch to each spoonful. If you want a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad.

Storing leftovers is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portions. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove, stirring well to revive its creamy consistency.

Easy homemade loaded potato soup encapsulates warmth, flavor, and comfort. Each recipe iteration can develop into a cherished family staple, bringing everyone to the table time and again. With every bowl, you share love, laughter, and the joy of good food, proving that the simplest recipes can bring the most happiness.

Easy Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and creamy loaded potato soup filled with rich flavors, perfect for chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bacon bits and green onions for topping

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and broth, bringing to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture.
5. Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with bacon bits and green onions.

Notes

For extra creaminess, consider using an immersion blender or mashing some of the cooked potatoes. Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can be added for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: soup, potato soup, comfort food, easy recipe, loaded soup