If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort that feels like a warm hug from your favorite sweater, this Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with crispy bacon bits, creamy cheddar cheese, tender potatoes, and a subtle hint of paprika, this soup hits every note of cozy and indulgent in the best way possible. It’s a heartwarming classic that brings together simple ingredients into a rich, velvety dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This soup shines because of its straightforward, essential ingredients—each playing a vital role in building its signature creamy texture, savory depth, and comforting flavor profile.
- Bacon (4 slices, chopped): Adds smoky crispiness and a salty crunch that makes every spoonful memorable.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Packs a punch of savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Essential for creating a rich, thick roux, giving the soup its creamy body.
- Chicken broth (3 cups): Brings a savory depth and balances the richness of the dairy.
- Russet potatoes (4 cups, peeled and diced): The star ingredient, delivering hearty texture and a naturally earthy flavor.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds smooth creaminess and lightens the heaviness of the soup.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): For luscious richness and velvety mouthfeel.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully to give cheesy indulgence with every bite.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Brings a tangy, creamy contrast that brightens the soup’s flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): For a subtle kick that balances the richness.
- Paprika (¼ teaspoon): Adds a delicate smoky note and beautiful color.
- Green onions and extra cheese (optional): Perfect for garnish, providing both color and fresh flavor.
How to Make Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it turns irresistibly crispy. This step not only renders out the flavorful fat needed for the base of your soup but also delivers those crunchy bacon bits you’ll use as the ultimate topping. Once done, scoop the bacon out and let it rest on a paper towel while you move on.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Using the delicious bacon drippings left behind, toss in the diced onion. Sauté it gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and translucent, releasing a sweet aroma that builds a lovely flavor foundation. Stir in minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to ensure it’s fragrant but not burnt, giving your soup a warm, inviting savoriness.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about one minute—the little flour to fat mixture called a roux thickens your soup to that crave-worthy creaminess, binding all the ingredients together in the most delightful way.
Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes
Slowly whisk the chicken broth into the pot, scraping any bits off the bottom so the soup absorbs every flavorful morsel. Then add diced potatoes along with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring everything up to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.
Step 5: Stir in Dairy and Cheese
Pour in the whole milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir the mixture gently, allowing the cheese to melt and blend seamlessly into a creamy, dreamy soup. Keep it on low heat for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until perfectly smooth and thickened. For a chunkier texture, use a potato masher to crush some potatoes in the pot, or opt for an immersion blender if you prefer your soup ultra-silky.
Step 6: Finish with Garnishes
Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces, chopped green onions, and a handful of extra shredded cheese right on top just before serving. This final touch adds wonderful color and a burst of fresh, crunchy, and cheesy goodness that elevates the whole experience.
How to Serve Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness and texture are everything here, so don’t skip the garnishes. Crisp bacon, bright green onions, and extra cheddar cheese bring contrasting flavors and textures that make eating each spoonful more exciting. A dash of paprika on top can add a subtle smoky warmth and pretty color to the presentation.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a warm crusty bread, perfect for dipping. You can also serve it with garlic toast or buttery corn muffins to keep the comfort food vibes rolling right through your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in charming bread bowls for a rustic, hearty touch that guests love. Or layer it in clear glass mugs topped with bacon and cheese for visual appeal that amps up the anticipation before the first spoon. It’s perfect for potlucks or any cozy night in where you want to impress without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your freshly made soup, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and keep them refrigerated. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to consume within 3 to 4 days for the best quality.
Freezing
This Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days ahead. Cool the soup completely before portioning into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture might slightly change, so consider stirring well or blending again after reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to bring back that smooth creaminess. Avoid boiling, which can cause the dairy to separate. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating helps restore the luscious texture perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To add a smoky depth, try a bit of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke. The soup will still be rich, creamy, and deliciously satisfying.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry instead of all-purpose flour for thickening. Just be sure to add it gradually and stir well to achieve that perfect creamy consistency without lumps.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Russets are ideal because they break down nicely to create a creamy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes work well too for a slightly firmer bite. Avoid waxy potatoes since they won’t break down as readily, changing the soup’s creaminess.
How can I change the soup’s texture?
If you prefer your soup chunky, simply mash some of the cooked potatoes with a potato masher, leaving ample bits intact. For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender until you reach your desired level of silkiness.
What can I add to make the soup extra rich?
A spoonful of cream cheese or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can boost the creaminess and add a little zing. Both options work wonderfully to personalize your Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe and keep it exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe is a true classic that transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding family on a chilly evening or impressing friends with comfort food done right, it’s a recipe that stays close to the heart. Give it a try, savor every creamy, cheesy mouthful, and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too.
Print
Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup is a rich and creamy American classic packed with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender russet potatoes. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days, offering a hearty and flavorful experience that combines creamy textures with savory bacon and a touch of spice from paprika. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s a family-friendly favorite that can be customized to your preferred texture, whether chunky or smooth.
Ingredients
Bacon and Aromatics
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
Garnish (Optional)
- Green onions
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the rendered bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour into the pot and stir constantly for 1 minute. This step helps cook out the raw flour taste and starts to thicken the soup base.
- Add Broth and Potatoes: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift up any flavorful browned bits. Add the peeled and diced potatoes along with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Potatoes: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Add Dairy and Cheese: Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue to simmer gently on low heat for another 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is creamy, cheesy, and fully heated through.
- Adjust Texture: For a chunkier soup, gently mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially or completely, depending on your preferred texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and additional cheddar cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, flavorful soup.
Notes
- For extra richness and a slight tang, add a dash of hot sauce or a spoonful of cream cheese while simmering the soup.
- This soup is an excellent way to use leftover baked potatoes – simply dice and add them during the simmer step.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or milk depending on your preference.
- Use low-fat dairy alternatives to reduce calories and fat content, if desired.
