Recipes

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This rich, hearty dish brings together the best parts of a classic loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tender potatoes—into a single bowl of pure indulgence. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser for family dinner, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe irresistible!

Ingredients and Their Role in the Recipe

Main Ingredients

1. 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and peeled
Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which breaks down to create a velvety, creamy soup.

2. 8 slices of bacon, diced
Adds a smoky, salty crunch and enhances the flavor profile of the soup.

3. 4 tbsp unsalted butter
Creates a rich, smooth base for the soup and helps sauté the aromatics.

4. 2 garlic cloves, minced
Infuses the soup with a subtle, savory depth.

5. 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
Adds a hint of sweetness and balances the savory notes.

6. 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Thickens the soup to a perfect creamy consistency.

7. 3 cups chicken broth
Provides a flavorful base and complements the richness of the potatoes.

8. 2 cups whole milk
Creates a luscious, creamy texture.

9. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Melts beautifully into the soup, adding a sharp, cheesy flavor.

10. 1/2 cup sour cream
Adds tanginess that balances the richness of the dish.

11. Salt and pepper, to taste
Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Optional Toppings

Sliced green onions

Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Crumbled bacon

A dollop of sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Scrub, peel, and dice the potatoes into small cubes.

2. Place them in a pot of salted water, bring to a boil, and cook until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.

2. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the butter to the reserved bacon grease.

2. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).

Step 4: Make the Roux

1. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This thickens the soup while eliminating any raw flour taste.

Step 5: Build the Soup Base

1. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.

2. Add the milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Incorporate the Potatoes and Cheese

1. Add the cooked potatoes to the soup base, mashing some with the back of a spoon for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.

2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.

Step 7: Finish with Sour Cream and Seasoning

1. Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream.

2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream as desired.

Why This Recipe is Loved

Comforting and Filling: This soup is a meal in itself, perfect for satisfying even the heartiest appetite.

Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Choose the Right Potatoes: Russets are best for a creamy soup, but Yukon Golds work well for a slightly buttery flavor.

Control the Consistency: Blend more potatoes for a smoother soup or leave chunks for a rustic feel.

Use Fresh Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can be waxy and won’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheddar.

Reheat Gently: Warm leftovers over low heat to prevent curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s also excellent served in a bread bowl for a fun and hearty presentation.

Conclusion

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Save this recipe today and enjoy the ultimate comfort in every spoonful!

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