Comfort food at its finest, this Loaded Potato Soup is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you’re in need of a soul-warming dish, this potato soup is easy to make and full of rich, savory flavors. Traditionally. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of hearty potato soup that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (ensure it’s gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a slight smokiness)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms or sautéed vegetables (e.g., carrots, celery) for extra flavor
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
To begin, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This will create the foundation of the soup, making it both flavorful and rich. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the diced onions and cook them until softened, which will take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The onions will release their natural sweetness as they cook.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic is an essential flavor in any soup, and it will start to release its fragrance, adding depth to the overall taste. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Broth
After the onions and garlic have softened, add the peeled and diced russet potatoes to the pot. Russet potatoes are perfect for soups due to their starchy nature, which helps to thicken the broth and gives the soup a creamy texture when blended.
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that the potatoes are fully covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will become tender and begin to absorb the flavors of the broth and aromatics.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply blend a portion of the potatoes, leaving some larger pieces in the soup for texture. For a smoother, creamier version, blend the entire mixture until it reaches your preferred consistency.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering. Once blended, return the soup to the pot.
Step 4: Add Dairy and Seasonings
Now it’s time to add the rich, creamy elements that will take this soup to the next level. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. The heavy cream will create a silky smooth texture, while the cheese will melt into the soup, adding a rich, savory flavor. Stir well until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Next, season the soup with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. The smoked paprika will add a subtle smokiness to the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, depending on your preferences.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the soup is heated through and the flavors have melded together, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor. If you’d like, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch.
This creamy and flavorful Loaded Potato Soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Helpful Tips:
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher before blending. If the soup is too thick after blending, simply add more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Vegetable Additions: For extra flavor, try adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or celery. These vegetables can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic in step 1, or added after blending for more texture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. While cheddar is the classic choice, you can use other varieties like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyère for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan, substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use dairy-free cheese options if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup a day or two in advance. In fact, the flavors often deepen after sitting overnight. Once the soup has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of chicken broth or milk to thin it out if needed.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing potato soup can be tricky because the dairy might separate after thawing, resulting in a slightly grainy texture. To avoid this, omit the cream and cheese during the initial cooking process. After reheating the soup, add the cream and cheese for the best result. The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this soup without dairy?
Yes, to make the soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with non-dairy options like coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. Can I make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! If you like spice, feel free to add extra smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also throw in some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to ramp up the spice level.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach to the soup for added texture and flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are tender before blending or serving.
Conclusion:
This Loaded Potato Soup is a warm, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy base, hearty potatoes, and rich cheese, it’s a meal that everyone will love. And with the option to customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or add additional flavors, you can make it your own. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or meal prepping for the week, this soup will surely satisfy all your cravings.
If you’re looking for a dish that is both satisfying and versatile, this Loaded Potato Soup is an ideal choice. It’s a wonderful option for those who need to avoid certain ingredients while still enjoying a delicious, hearty meal.