Cozy Loaded Potato Soup: A Heartwarming Recipe for Every Season
As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air takes on that crisp, cozy chill, my thoughts drift toward comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug. One of my all-time favorites is this creamy, dreamy Cozy Loaded Potato Soup. There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the bustling kitchens of my childhood, where the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic danced through the air like a welcome friend. This recipe brings that feeling right home, making it the perfect easy weeknight dinner after a long day or a soul-soothing lunch on a chilly weekend.
There’s no need to wait for the depths of winter to enjoy this delightful bowl of goodness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply need a bowl of comfort to cheer up your day, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this 30-minute soup will have you cozied up enjoying a warm bowl before you know it.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s family or friends, everyone loves a hearty potato soup, and this recipe is sure to win over hearts.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or ingredients to make it uniquely yours, deliciously hitting every taste bud.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup not only warms your soul but nourishes your body, too!
Perfectly Comforting: Rich and creamy, it’s like a cozy blanket for your insides, making it ideal for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cozy Loaded Potato Soup
Gathering the ingredients for this delicious soup is a breeze! Here’s what you need to whip up this comforting classic:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of crispy turkey bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
How to Make Cozy Loaded Potato Soup
Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes, allowing them to soak up the flavor of the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the broth and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Simmer Away: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Mash for Texture: Using a potato masher, blend some of the potatoes to create a thicker texture while keeping some delicious chunks intact.
Stir in Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, and gently stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing them to melt into the soup, creating a rich and creamy base.
Season to Perfection: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your liking.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled turkey bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a bright, flavorful finish.
Variations & Creative Twists
This Cozy Loaded Potato Soup is a fantastic blank canvas! Here are a few fun ways to customize it:
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty touch!
Vegetable Medley: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach for an extra boost of greens.
Cheesy Excellence: Mix in some crumbled blue cheese or gouda for a rich, indulgent twist.
Comforting Creaminess: Substitute the heavy cream with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy finish.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
For the best results and an even cozier experience, check out these helpful tips:
Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare this soup a day in advance! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much overnight.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have heavy cream, try using half-and-half or evaporated milk—it still yields a beautiful creamy base.
Storage Secrets: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently on the stove.
Freezing for Later: If you want to freeze your soup, do so before adding the cream, and add it upon reheating. This keeps the texture smooth.
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 31g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delightful.
Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Feel free to swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or the turkey bacon for another protein source.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How long does it last?
Unopened, it can last in the freezer for 2-3 months, though it’s best enjoyed freshly made!
Wrapping It Up
This Cozy Loaded Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings back memories, smiles, and encourages good conversation with loved ones. Made with love and simple ingredients, it embodies comfort in every spoonful. Save this Cozy Loaded Potato Soup to your comfort food board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Happy cooking, friends!
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Cozy Loaded Potato Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A heartwarming and creamy potato soup that’s perfect for chilly days and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of crispy turkey bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Using a potato masher, blend some of the potatoes to thicken the soup while keeping chunks intact.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled turkey bacon and chives for garnish.
Notes
Make ahead for deeper flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: potato soup, comfort food, cozy recipes, easy soup, hearty soup