Let’s Get Cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the olive oil to the pot with the bacon fat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
Add the chicken broth, diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. Alternatively, carefully blend half the soup in a regular blender until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Step 5: Creamy Finish
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Serve it Up!
Ladle the Loaded Potato Soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings: chopped green onions, extra cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream.
Tips & Tricks
- Potato Power: Russet potatoes are best – they create that perfect creamy texture.
- Texture Control: Blend more for a smoother soup, less for a chunkier one.
- Cheese Please: Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack adds a nice twist!
Variations
Spicy Kick
Add a diced jalapeño to the onions, or stir in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Vegetarian Version
Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. Smoked paprika or liquid smoke adds a smoky depth of flavor.
Broccoli Boost
Add 1 cup of chopped broccoli during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a crusty bread bowl for extra comfort.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Balance it out with a simple green side salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Make Ahead?
Yes! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a little broth if needed.
Storage & Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months, but the texture might change slightly. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of cozy comfort! Let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
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