Created on December 1st, 2025 at 02:45 pm
A creamy, hearty bowl of comfort
Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, loaded potato soup is a delightful meal that warms both the body and soul. This classic dish combines tender potatoes, savory turkey bacon, and sharp cheese, creating a comforting experience with every spoonful. The aroma of simmering potatoes and fragrant herbs envelops your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite reveals a smooth, velvety texture, balanced by the crunch of toppings.
What makes this soup truly special is its ability to adapt to personal tastes. You can add your favorite toppings, from chives and sour cream to additional cheeses, creating a bowl that feels uniquely yours. On chilly evenings or busy weeknights, this loaded potato soup provides not just nourishment but an emotional comfort that resonates deeply.
There is something inherently satisfying about a warm bowl of loaded potato soup. It’s a reminder of home, shared meals, and cozy moments.
Why This Dish Belongs in Your Rotation
What sets this loaded potato soup apart is its comforting heartiness and versatile nature. The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy turkey bacon creates a remarkable flavor profile that is both satisfying and indulgent. The recipe is also straightforward, making it suitable for even the busiest of days. Most of the preparation is hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the soup cooks.
In addition, this soup is perfect for gatherings. It can easily be doubled for larger groups, and leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. A simple reheat brings back the warmth and aroma, reminding you of a home-cooked meal during a hectic week.
Time Breakdown
This loaded potato soup comes together swiftly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking time, it can transform into a satisfying meal with ease.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients List
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 slices of turkey bacon, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional: sour cream, chopped green onions, or more cheese for garnish
Kitchen Tools
Preparing this loaded potato soup requires just a few basic tools that make the steps straightforward and stress-free.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the turkey bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to thicken the soup without fully blending it. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese. Allow it to warm for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Serve the soup in bowls topped with the reserved turkey bacon, additional cheese, and optional garnishes like sour cream or chopped green onions.
Pro Tips
- For a deeper flavor, try using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it after cooking and then return it to the pot.
- Feel free to add vegetables like corn or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
- This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Hearty Comfort in Every Spoonful
This loaded potato soup captures the essence of comfort food simplicity. With its creamy texture and hearty flavors, it fits beautifully into everyday life. Whether served on a chilly evening or enjoyed as a cozy lunch, this dish showcases the satisfying nature of homemade cooking.
Keep this recipe close for those days when you seek warmth and comfort without the fuss. It serves as a gentle reminder that good food can bring joy and connection to our daily routines.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 14 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- sour cream for garnish
- chopped green onions for garnish
- more cheese for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the turkey bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the broth and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to thicken the soup without fully blending it. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese. Allow warming for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Serve the soup in bowls topped with the reserved bacon, additional cheese, and optional garnishes like sour cream or chopped green onions.
Notes
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