If you’re a fan of loaded baked potatoes, you’re going to love this Loaded Baked Potato Soup! Packed with all the flavors of a classic baked potato—creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a hint of garlic and onion—this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or anytime you need a hearty and satisfying meal. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s a keeper!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, this soup is pure comfort.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
Customizable: Top with your favorite baked potato toppings like cheese, green onions, or sour cream.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
For the Soup:
4 potatoes, scrubbed (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
8 bacon slices (for topping and flavor)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for topping)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
Chopped green onions
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Crumbled bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Pierce the potatoes with a fork and bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Let the potatoes cool slightly, then peel and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on paper towels to drain. Crumble it into pieces for topping.
Reserve 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the butter to the pot with the bacon grease. Once melted, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
4. Build the Soup
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the butter and aromatics.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Top
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions.
Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Use Russet Potatoes: They have a starchy texture that makes the soup extra creamy.
Save Time: Use pre-cooked bacon or store-bought bacon bits for a quicker version.
Make It Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth and omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Add Extra Flavor: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for a spicy or smoky twist.
Serving Suggestions
With Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for dipping.
Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, and bacon for a fun, interactive meal.
Why This Recipe Works
Creamy and Hearty: The combination of potatoes, cream, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying soup.
Easy to Customize: Add your favorite baked potato toppings to make it your own.
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Crowd-Pleasing: A comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the flavors of a classic baked potato in a creamy, hearty soup. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, lunch, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort! 🥔🍲✨
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