Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

why make this recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for cold days when you crave something warm and comforting. This tasty soup combines the rich flavors of baked potatoes with creamy cheese and crispy bacon, making it a favorite for many. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a warm bowl of soup in no time.

how to make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth or slightly chunky texture as preferred. Alternatively, carefully transfer soup in batches to a stand blender and blend until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue cooking over low heat until cheese fully melts and soup is heated through, around 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Ladle soup into serving bowls. Top each portion with crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, and chopped green onions before serving.

how to serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls. You can add extra toppings such as more cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it as a meal on its own or as a starter before your main dish.

how to store Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

tips to make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• For a thicker soup, blend more of the potatoes.
• Using a mix of cheddar and other cheeses can give it a different flavor.
• For added flavor, try adding herbs like fresh parsley or chives to the soup before serving.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.

variation

You can customize this soup by adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or carrots. You can also use different types of cheese or meet options, like turkey bacon or sausage, to suit your taste.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will give a different flavor and sweetness to your soup, making it a delightful variation.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is gluten-free as it uses broth and no flour as a thickening agent.

How can I make this soup vegan?
To make it vegan, use vegetable broth, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free cheese. You can also skip the bacon or replace it with tempeh or mushrooms for added texture.