Hearty potato soup loaded with toppings

Ingredients

To make this hearty potato soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it is crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

Add the chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease and cook it until it is soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.

Once the potatoes are fully cooked, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

Ladle the hearty potato soup into bowls and top with the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. Serve hot with some crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Variations

If you want to add some extra flavor to your potato soup, consider adding some chopped cooked ham or crispy diced pancetta. You can also stir in some chopped kale or spinach for added nutrients and color.

For a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Gouda, for a unique twist.

Tips

If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Just be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some chunks of potato for texture.

This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin it out.

With its creamy and rich texture, hearty potato soup is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day. Loaded with toppings like bacon, cheese, and green onions, it's a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter for a larger dinner spread. This recipe is easy to customize with different add-ins and toppings, making it a versatile option for any occasion. So, next time you're craving a comforting bowl of soup, give this hearty potato soup recipe a try and enjoy its delicious flavors.