If you’re a fan of rich, creamy soups that pack a punch of flavor, then you are in for a treat with this Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup. Combining the earthy richness of russet potatoes, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, the salty crispiness of bacon, and the unique maltiness of beer, this soup is the perfect dish for those cold days when you want to indulge in something warm and filling. It’s the type of meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl, offering comfort with every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
- Add the butter to the pot and melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, creating a roux.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, beer, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Return the bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Appeal of Beer Cheese Soup
Beer cheese soup is a beloved comfort food that originated in the Midwestern United States, particularly in Wisconsin, where cheese and beer are two cornerstones of local cuisine. The magic of this soup lies in the balance of flavors—the smooth, creamy cheese blends beautifully with the slightly bitter beer, creating a dynamic that’s both indulgent and sophisticated.
In this version of the classic beer cheese soup, we’ve added the heartiness of potatoes and the crunch of crispy bacon, giving it an extra layer of texture and making it a complete meal. The potatoes provide a robust base that soaks up the rich, cheesy broth, while the bacon adds a delightful salty contrast that complements the creamy elements.
Why This Recipe Works
This Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup is a celebration of flavors and textures. One of the reasons it works so well is the thoughtful combination of ingredients that bring different qualities to the table. The potatoes, which are mild and starchy, serve as the perfect vessel to carry the bold flavors of the cheese and beer. They create a substantial and hearty texture without overpowering the other ingredients. By peeling and dicing them into small cubes, they cook down beautifully, becoming soft and tender while retaining just enough bite to give the soup a satisfying mouthfeel.
Cheddar cheese is the star of this recipe, bringing a sharp and tangy flavor that melds perfectly with the beer. Sharp cheddar is recommended because its bolder flavor stands up to the beer without being lost in the richness of the soup. As the cheese melts into the soup, it adds not only flavor but also a smooth, velvety texture that makes each spoonful feel luxurious.
The addition of beer brings a unique, slightly bitter undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile. While you can use any type of beer in this soup, a lager or ale is preferred because it provides a well-rounded malty flavor without being too strong or overpowering. The alcohol in the beer evaporates during cooking, so the final product contains none of its intoxicating effects—just its rich, complex taste.
Bacon is another essential component in this soup. Its crispy texture and salty flavor provide a much-needed contrast to the creaminess of the soup. The bacon is cooked first to render out its fat, which is then used as the base to cook the onions and garlic, infusing the entire dish with a smoky, savory depth.
Finally, this soup is finished off with a splash of heavy cream and sour cream, adding an extra layer of richness and tanginess. The result is a smooth, decadent soup that feels both light and indulgent at the same time.
Versatility and Customization
One of the best things about this Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup is its versatility. While the recipe as written is a crowd-pleaser, it’s also highly adaptable to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe to make it your own:
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to make this soup vegetarian, you can easily omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To replace the smoky flavor that bacon provides, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or using smoked cheese.
- Vegan Alternative: For a vegan version, substitute the dairy-based ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Use a vegan cheese that melts well, such as a cashew-based cheddar, and replace the heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt. Make sure to use a vegan beer, as some beers are brewed with animal products.
- Add More Veggies: If you want to boost the nutritional value of this soup, feel free to add more vegetables. Broccoli, cauliflower, or even spinach would be excellent additions. Simply chop them up and add them during the cooking process.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a little heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. The spice pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheese and adds a little kick that will keep your taste buds intrigued.
- Change the Cheese: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other types of cheese. Gouda, Swiss, or even blue cheese could provide interesting flavor variations. Mixing different types of cheese can also add more depth to the flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup is ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving it as a casual weeknight dinner for your family, bringing it to a potluck, or preparing it as an appetizer for a dinner party, it’s sure to impress. The richness of the soup makes it a satisfying meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or a slice of crusty bread.
This soup is especially popular during the fall and winter months when the weather turns chilly, and you’re craving something warm and comforting. The combination of beer and cheese makes it a hit for game day gatherings, too. Serve it alongside pretzels or crackers for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a perfect party dish.
Nutritional Considerations
While this soup is undeniably rich and hearty, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. If you’re concerned about the calorie content, there are a few simple adjustments you can make without sacrificing flavor. For example, you could use a lower-fat cheese, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half, or even cut back on the bacon.
That being said, this soup is meant to be a treat, so don’t be afraid to indulge a little. The combination of flavors and textures is so satisfying that a small portion is often enough to fill you up and leave you feeling warm and cozy.
Conclusion:
Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup is a wonderful blend of savory flavors and rich, creamy textures. The combination of sharp cheddar, malty beer, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cooler weather or any occasion where you want to serve up something comforting and delicious. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it an easy go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and full of flavor. Pair it with your favorite craft beer, a simple salad, or some fresh bread, and you have the makings of a memorable meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
In a world where convenience foods often take precedence, making a comforting homemade dish like this beer cheese potato soup can remind us of the joy of cooking from scratch. The effort is worth it not just for the incredible taste but for the satisfaction of creating something delicious to share with loved ones.
Print
Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy soups that pack a punch of flavor, then you are in for a treat with this Loaded Beer Cheese Potato Soup. Combining the earthy richness of russet potatoes, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, the salty crispiness of bacon, and the unique maltiness of beer, this soup is the perfect dish for those cold days when you want to indulge in something warm and filling. It’s the type of meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl, offering comfort with every bite.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup beer (lager or ale)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
- Add the butter to the pot and melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes, creating a roux.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, beer, heavy cream, and sour cream. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
- Return the bacon to the pot and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
