O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that brings the flavors of a classic baked potato into a warm, satisfying soup. Packed with hearty potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a velvety base, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or as an appetizer for gatherings. It’s easy to make, incredibly filling, and loaded with flavor, making it a go-to comfort food for chilly days.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus more for garnish)
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, boil the cubed potatoes until tender but not mushy, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Roux:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. - Make the Soup Base:
Gradually add the chicken broth to the roux, whisking to combine. Then, slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while continuing to whisk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. - Season and Add Potatoes:
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked potatoes to the soup and stir gently to combine. - Incorporate Cheese and Bacon:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish. - Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional cheese, the reserved bacon, sour cream, and green onions, if desired.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
This O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup recipe brings the perfect mix of creamy texture and indulgent toppings. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family!
The Appeal of Loaded Potato Soup
Potato soup is a dish that has long been associated with warmth, comfort, and satisfaction. O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup elevates this concept by adding a luxurious blend of cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy ingredients, making it as indulgent as it is filling. The dish is an ideal choice for those looking to recreate the homestyle flavors of a classic baked potato but in a format that feels both hearty and sophisticated.
One of the reasons this soup is so popular is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a main course on a cold winter night or as an appetizer at a dinner party, its universal appeal is undeniable. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and optional garnishes like sour cream and green onions makes it a dish that feels customizable and crowd-pleasing.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and ability to capture complex flavors without requiring advanced cooking skills. It begins with a creamy roux base made of butter and flour, which is then enhanced with chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. This creates a rich, velvety foundation that perfectly complements the tender potatoes.
What makes this recipe stand out, however, are the toppings. Crispy bacon and shredded cheddar cheese add a savory richness, while optional garnishes like green onions and sour cream offer layers of flavor and texture. These elements transform the soup from a simple dish into a loaded masterpiece reminiscent of a fully dressed baked potato.
Another key element of this recipe is its ability to balance indulgence with nutritional value. While it’s undoubtedly a rich dish, it incorporates wholesome ingredients like russet potatoes and milk, offering a satisfying and hearty meal that doesn’t feel overly heavy.
The Perfect Occasion for Loaded Potato Soup
This dish is an excellent choice for a variety of occasions. For a cozy weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring it becomes a family favorite.
It also shines as an appetizer or side dish for gatherings and celebrations. Serve it as part of a buffet spread during holiday parties or as a comforting starter to a more elaborate meal. Its warmth and heartiness make it particularly suited for colder months when comfort food is in high demand.
Customizing the Recipe to Suit Your Tastes
One of the best aspects of O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup is its adaptability. You can easily tweak the recipe to match your preferences or dietary needs:
- Add Extra Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken, sausage, or even leftover ham for a more protein-rich version.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and replace bacon with crispy fried shallots or smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
- Amp Up the Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Swap out the sharp cheddar for Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites to create unique flavor combinations.
Tips for Making the Perfect Loaded Potato Soup
To ensure the best results, here are a few tips and tricks:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup naturally.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes just until tender to avoid a mushy texture when they’re added to the soup base.
- Whisk Constantly When Making the Roux: This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy base for the soup.
- Season Gradually: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Ingredients like bacon and cheese already add saltiness, so it’s best to add salt sparingly.
- Serve Fresh: While the soup can be reheated, it’s best enjoyed fresh to maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
Loaded potato soup is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic experience that evokes feelings of warmth and happiness. The creamy base, paired with the savory toppings, creates a dish that’s satisfying on every level. Each bite offers a mix of smooth, velvety soup, tender potato chunks, and crispy bacon or cheese, making it a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a bowl on your own, O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup has a way of making any occasion feel special. Its simplicity and accessibility ensure that even beginner cooks can achieve a restaurant-quality dish, while its versatility allows for endless personalization.
Conclusion
O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. With its rich, creamy texture and indulgent toppings, it’s the perfect meal for those seeking warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or simply to enjoy on a quiet evening, this soup delivers every time. Its adaptable recipe and universal appeal ensure it will become a staple in your recipe collection—a dish you’ll return to again and again.
From its velvety base to its crisp, savory toppings, every element of this soup is designed to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl.