Loaded Potato Soup from LongHorn Steakhouse features creamy mashed potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives, topped with a dollop of sour cream, delivering a hearty and comforting bowl with rich, savory flavors and a smooth, velvety texture.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Ladle
- Potato masher
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
- Soup bowls
- Skillet (for bacon)
- Slotted spoon (for bacon)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 4 cups (1L) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (115g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup (80g) sour cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh chives
Russet potatoes are key for achieving the soup's creamy texture, so choose firm potatoes without green spots or sprouts. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the soup's saltiness and balance the smoky bacon's salty flavor. Whole milk and heavy cream should be at room temperature before mixing to avoid curdling and to ensure a smooth, velvety consistency. Sharp cheddar cheese must be freshly grated for optimal meltability and a rich, tangy taste that complements the savory ingredients. Your recreation of Loaded Potato Soup from LongHorn Steakhouse will capture its hearty, comforting flavor when you carefully select and prepare each ingredient as outlined.
Instructions
- Peel and dice russet potatoes.
- Finely chop yellow onion and garlic.
- Grate sharp cheddar cheese.
- Slice fresh chives.
- In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy; remove with slotted spoon and crumble.
- Reserve 1–2 tablespoons bacon fat; discard the rest.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion; sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in flour; cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
- Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Bring to a simmer; cook until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Partially mash potatoes in the pot using a potato masher.
- Whisk in milk and heavy cream; heat gently.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix in sour cream, half the cooked bacon, and half the chives.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with reserved bacon, cheddar cheese, chives, and a dollop of sour cream.
Substitution
Loaded Potato Soup from LongHorn Steakhouse can be customized using different types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes if russets are unavailable, though the texture may vary slightly. You can substitute turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lower-fat or meat-free option without compromising the smoky flavor. If sharp cheddar is not on hand, try using aged gouda or Monterey Jack for a similar creamy and tangy profile. Whole milk and heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter soup while maintaining creaminess. Fresh chives can be swapped with green onions or parsley to provide a fresh, mild onion flavor as a garnish.
Tips
When peeling and dicing russet potatoes, ensure pieces are uniform in size for even cooking. Save a couple of tablespoons of the bacon fat to enhance the soup's flavor when sauteing onions and garlic. Partially mashing the potatoes inside the pot will give the soup a creamy texture without needing extra thickening agents. Remember to add cheese gradually and stir well to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, velvety consistency in your final soup.
Nutritions
Loaded Potato Soup provides a rich source of carbohydrates primarily from russet potatoes, fueling your energy needs with complex starches and dietary fiber. The sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream contribute substantial amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and protein necessary for bone health and muscle repair. Smoky bacon adds savory flavor and protein but also increases saturated fat and sodium, so moderation is key in your serving size. Fresh chives bring a small dose of antioxidants and vitamins A and C, enhancing the soup's nutritional profile with beneficial micronutrients.
Storage
Store Loaded Potato Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For best quality, consume the soup within 3 to 4 days and reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its creamy texture and flavor balance. You can also freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a lighter variation, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. You can also use smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar for a different smoky or spicy profile. Grate potatoes coarsely to add more texture, or blend more thoroughly for a smoother soup consistency. Incorporate diced jalapenos or canned green chilies if you want to infuse a mild heat that compliments the smoky bacon and paprika flavors in your Loaded Potato Soup.
Allergies
Loaded Potato Soup contains common allergens such as dairy from whole milk, heavy cream, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream, which may trigger reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The inclusion of bacon and chicken broth introduces potential sensitivities for those allergic to pork or poultry. You should check all ingredients carefully if you have food allergies to avoid any adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Loaded Potato Soup from LongHorn Steakhouse is praised for its rich, creamy texture combined with hearty chunks of potatoes and crispy bacon bits that deliver a satisfying, savory flavor. The perfect blend of sharp cheddar cheese and green onions adds a flavorful punch that many soup lovers crave. Making the copycat recipe lets you recreate this beloved comfort food at home using fresh ingredients and customizing the seasoning to suit Your taste. This soup offers a delicious, cost-effective way to enjoy the same indulgent experience from LongHorn without dining out.