Craving comfort food? Look no further! This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the answer to chilly evenings and cozy cravings. It’s creamy, dreamy, and packed with all the flavors you love in a loaded baked potato. Get ready for a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This isn’t your average soup; it’s a hug in a bowl! Here’s why you’ll be making this recipe again and again:
* Ultimate Comfort Food: It combines the best parts of a baked potato into a warm, comforting soup.
* Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this soup a breeze to whip up.
* Customizable: Add your favorite toppings and adjust the thickness to your liking.
* Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, you probably already have most of them in your kitchen!
* Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the star of the show! They provide the perfect creamy base.
* Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that’s essential for a loaded baked potato experience.
* Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the foundation of a flavorful soup.
* Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and the right amount of liquid.
* Milk and Cream: The secret to a creamy, luscious soup.
* Butter and Flour: Used to create a roux, which thickens the soup to perfection.
* Cheddar Cheese: Because what’s a loaded baked potato without cheese?
* Sour Cream: Adds a tangy, cooling element to balance the richness.
* Green Onions: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.
* Salt and Pepper: To season to taste.
Ingredient Substitutions
* Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes can be used as a substitute for russet potatoes.
* Bacon: Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon crumbles for a healthier or meat-free option.
* Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian version.
* Milk and Cream: Use half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative (note that coconut milk will impart a slight coconut flavor).
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own bowl of comfort.
1. Cook the Bacon: Cook bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot. Crumble the bacon once it’s cooled.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the pot with the bacon grease and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux: Melt butter into the pot with the onions and garlic. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Add cubed potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot. If you like a chunkier soup, skip this step.
6. Add Dairy and Cheese: Stir in milk and cream until heated through. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Assemble and Serve: Ladle soup into bowls. Top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Soup
* Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes can make the soup gummy.
* Use High-Quality Cheese: The better the cheese, the better the flavor! Sharp cheddar is a great choice.
* Adjust the Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
* Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to take it to the next level:
* Side Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup.
* Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
* Grilled Cheese: A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing with tomato soup, but it’s also delicious with loaded baked potato soup!
Storage Instructions
* Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to thin it out.
Freeze: While you can* freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. If you choose to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup! Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!