Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Warm and Comforting Recipe

When the weather turns chilly, nothing hits the spot like a hearty bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This creamy and flavorful dish is packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Rich and Creamy: Made with a combination of potatoes, cream, and cheese, this soup delivers a luxurious texture.
2. Easy to Make: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients found in most kitchens.
3. Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese for a personal touch.
4. Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, this soup is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll need:

• 4 large Russet potatoes, baked and diced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (720ml) chicken broth
• 2 cups (480ml) milk or heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Bake the potatoes ahead of time until tender. Let them cool, then peel and dice them into bite-sized pieces. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux

• Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir until combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Potatoes

• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk or cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Blend and Season

• Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon

• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for garnish.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon.

Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their fluffy texture.
• Don’t Skip the Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy soup.
• Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, use less broth or add a cornstarch slurry. For a thinner consistency, add more milk or broth.
• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the bacon for smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What to Serve with Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This rich soup pairs perfectly with:

• Crusty Bread: Use it to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth.
• Side Salad: A fresh, green salad adds a light contrast to the hearty soup.
• Grilled Sandwiches: Serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate cold-weather dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this easy-to-make soup will quickly become a favorite.

Try it today, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings for a meal that feels just like home!