There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup to bring comfort to your day. This rich and creamy soup is packed with tender red potatoes, melted Velveeta cheese, and a perfectly seasoned broth, making every spoonful indulgently satisfying. Topped with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives, it’s a meal that delivers on both flavor and texture. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or hosting a casual gathering, this loaded potato soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its velvety consistency and smoky bacon crunch create the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. Pair it with warm dinner rolls or a side salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone craving more!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds red potatoes, diced
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 8 cups half-and-half
- 16 ounces Velveeta cheese, diced
- 1 tablespoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- ½ pound bacon, crisply fried and crumbled (for topping)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
- ½ cup fresh chives, chopped (for topping)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for topping)
Directions:
- Dice the potatoes into half-inch cubes, keeping the skins on. Transfer them to a large saucepan and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 10 minutes until they are slightly firm in the middle. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to thicken.
- Gradually add the Velveeta cheese in small portions, stirring after each addition until fully melted and smooth.
- Stir in the white pepper, garlic powder, and hot pepper sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add the cooked potatoes to the creamy cheese broth. Cover and let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Legacy of O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup
O’Charley’s, a popular American casual dining restaurant chain, is famous for its delicious Southern-style dishes. While their menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering meals, their loaded potato soup has become an absolute fan favorite. This soup is known for its ultra-creamy texture, velvety cheese infusion, and perfectly seasoned broth, making it one of the most sought-after recipes for home cooks looking to recreate that restaurant-quality experience.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to an O’Charley’s location. Plus, for those who love cooking at home, making this soup from scratch ensures that it can be customized to your preferences whether you want it extra cheesy, spicier, or even vegetarian-friendly.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
There are many potato soup recipes available, but what makes this loaded potato soup unique? The combination of textures, flavors, and richness sets it apart. The blend of red potatoes, half-and-half, Velveeta cheese, and seasonings ensures that each bite is smooth and creamy while still maintaining the heartiness that makes it filling.
1. The Perfect Potato Choice
Red potatoes are the star of this dish, chosen for their creamy texture and ability to hold their shape even after cooking. Unlike Russet potatoes, which tend to break down and turn grainy, red potatoes remain slightly firm, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful.
2. Creamy, Cheese-Infused Broth
One of the best features of this soup is the cheese-infused broth. Velveeta cheese is the secret ingredient, giving the soup its signature smooth and velvety consistency. Combined with half-and-half, butter, and a simple flour roux, this results in a thick, rich base that coats your spoon beautifully.
3. A Balance of Flavors
To balance the richness of the soup, white pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of hot pepper sauce are added. These seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile, cutting through the creaminess and adding subtle heat and depth to each bite.
4. Toppings That Elevate the Dish
While the soup itself is delicious, the toppings take it to the next level. Crispy crumbled bacon adds a smoky and salty contrast, shredded cheddar cheese provides an extra cheesy bite, and fresh chives or parsley bring a hint of freshness. These toppings are essential to truly capturing the restaurant-quality experience of O’Charley’s famous dish.
Customization and Variations
One of the best parts about making this soup at home is the ability to customize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few ways to adapt the recipe:
1. Vegetarian Option
For those who want a meatless version, the bacon can be omitted or replaced with a vegetarian alternative like crispy tofu bacon or smoked paprika-roasted chickpeas. The base of the soup remains just as creamy and flavorful, making it a satisfying dish for vegetarians.
2. Extra Protein Boost
If you want to add more protein, consider incorporating shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage. This turns the soup into a more filling meal that works well for lunch or dinner.
3. Dairy-Free Alternative
While dairy is a key component in this recipe, those who are lactose-intolerant can still enjoy a delicious variation by using coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace some of the cheese flavor, while plant-based butter keeps the broth rich and smooth.
4. Make It Spicier
For those who love a bit of heat, additional hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños can be added. A spicy version of this soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.
Pairing Suggestions: What to Serve with Loaded Potato Soup
This soup is indulgent on its own, but if you want to create a complete meal, consider pairing it with:
- Warm Dinner Rolls – Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad – A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread adds a delicious crunch.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic pairing that takes comfort food to another level.
How to Store and Reheat the Soup
If you make a big batch, proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining its texture and flavor.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze it, keep in mind that dairy-based soups sometimes separate when thawed. To help prevent this, stir well after reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent the cheese from sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Conclusion:
O’Charley’s Loaded Potato Soup is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant straight to your home. Whether you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food on a cold evening or a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings, this soup delivers on all fronts.
With its creamy texture, perfectly cooked potatoes, and layers of flavor, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, its versatility means you can adjust it to fit your preferences, making it the perfect homemade alternative to the restaurant favorite.