When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something hearty and soul-warming, nothing beats a steaming bowl of loaded baked potato soup. Packed with creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, this recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. Ready to dive in? Let’s make this your go-to dish!
Why Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Ever wondered why this dish is so beloved? It’s the perfect mix of rich, creamy texture and savory flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this soup fits every occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy ingredients to create magic. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 large Russet potatoes (baked and diced)
- 1 cup of crispy bacon bits
- 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 cups of milk (whole milk works best)
- ½ cup of heavy cream
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: green onions and additional cheese for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prep Your Potatoes
Bake the Russet potatoes until tender. Let them cool, peel, and dice into chunks. This step ensures the potatoes retain their texture in the soup.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, fry bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, but leave some drippings for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add butter to the pot. Once melted, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent. This forms the flavorful base for your soup.
4. Create the Creamy Base
Stir in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Potatoes
Toss in the diced baked potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let them simmer to soak up the flavors.
6. Blend for Texture
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This gives you a creamy base while keeping some potato chunks intact for texture.
7. Add the Cheese and Bacon
Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and half of the bacon bits. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is velvety smooth.
Tips to Elevate Your Soup Game
1. Use the Right Potatoes
Russet potatoes are starchy and perfect for a creamy consistency.
2. Don’t Skip the Bacon Drippings
They add a smoky depth you can’t replicate.
3. Customize Toppings
Top with extra cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair.
4. Add a Kick
For a spicy twist, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over your bowl.
Healthier Variations
Want to make it lighter without losing flavor? Try these tweaks:
- Swap heavy cream for low-fat milk.
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
- Add a handful of steamed broccoli for extra nutrition.
What to Serve with Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it can elevate your meal:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
- A fresh side salad with vinaigrette for balance.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort food combo.
Storage and Reheating Tips
1. Store It Right
Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing Option
Avoid freezing if it contains cream, as it might separate. Instead, freeze the base before adding dairy and reheat to add cream later.
3. Reheat Gently
Warm the soup over low heat, stirring often, to avoid curdling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This loaded baked potato soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience. It’s the warmth of home, the comfort of a hug, and the joy of sharing a meal—all in one bowl.
Conclusion: Make It Tonight!
What’s stopping you from indulging in this bowl of happiness? With simple ingredients, easy steps, and unmatched flavor, this loaded baked potato soup is a must-try. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, it’s bound to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let the magic begin!
