## 🧾 Ingredients
* 6 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
* 1 small onion, finely chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1 cup heavy cream or milk
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, extra cheese, chopped chives
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## 👩🍳 How to Make It
### 1. **Cook the Base**
In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in a little oil or butter until translucent. Add diced potatoes and broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
### 2. **Blend the Soup**
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture with some chunks, or transfer half the soup to a blender and pulse until smooth before returning it to the pot.
### 3. **Add Cheese and Cream**
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Cook over low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy and smooth.
### 4. **Season and Serve**
Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with crumbled bacon, green onions, sour cream, and extra cheese if desired.
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## 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
* Serve with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls
* Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal
* Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed greens for extra nutrition
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## 💡 Tips & Variations
* **Make it vegetarian:** Use vegetable broth and omit bacon, or substitute with smoked paprika for smoky flavor.
* **Add more veggies:** Stir in corn, carrots, or celery for added texture and nutrition.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
* **Use Greek yogurt:** Swap sour cream for a tangy, healthier topping.
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## Final Thoughts
Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. With its creamy base, hearty potatoes, and irresistible toppings, it’s the perfect dish to cozy up with any time you need a little warmth and deliciousness in a bowl. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Warm up your kitchen and your heart with a bowl of this classic favorite today!
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Need help adjusting this recipe for dietary preferences or want suggestions for the perfect sides? Just ask!
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