Craving a comforting soup that combines the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato? This loaded potato soup recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm you up on a chilly day. With creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, it’s the ultimate indulgence in a bowl.
Imagine sitting down to a rich and savory bowl of soup that tastes just like your favorite baked potato, but in a hearty, warming form. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, cozy family dinners, or just treating yourself after a long day.
The Comfort of Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This loaded baked potato soup embodies the essence of comfort food. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it captures the taste of a classic baked potato, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings.
Every bowl is a warm embrace, inviting you to indulge in its hearty goodness. The combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar creates a satisfying experience that lingers just long enough to leave you wanting another spoonful.
Ingredients That Elevate the Flavor
The key to a delightful loaded baked potato soup lies in its ingredients. Fresh, high-quality russet potatoes form the base, providing that familiar, comforting taste. Crisp bacon adds a savory crunch, while sharp cheddar cheese melts in, enhancing the creamy texture.
Onions contribute a subtle sweetness, and a splash of heavy cream brings it all together, creating a velvety soup that feels indulgent yet approachable. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for extra depth, and don’t forget the green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparation
Starting with peeled and diced potatoes and chopped onions sets the stage for this delightful dish. Cooking the bacon in a large pot creates a base flavor that infuses the soup with richness.
Once the bacon is crispy, sauté the onions in the rendered fat to develop their sweetness before adding the potatoes and broth. Simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, allowing their starches to thicken the soup naturally.
Blending the Perfect Consistency
For a smooth finish, blending the soup is essential. An immersion blender is handy for this, allowing you to control the texture—whether you prefer it silky or with chunks of potato for a heartier feel.
After blending, stir in the cream and cheese over low heat until melted and creamy. This step transforms the soup into a luxurious dish that lives up to its name.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
Serving the soup in rustic bowls enhances the overall presentation. Top each bowl with crispy bacon, additional cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions to create a colorful and appetizing dish.
Pair this comforting soup with a slice of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the creamy goodness. It’s a satisfying meal that is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This loaded baked potato soup is versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or as a standout dish at gatherings. Its rich flavors and creamy texture appeal to a wide range of palates.
Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with family and friends, this soup is a delightful centerpiece that promises to please. Each bowl serves as a reminder of the simple joys found in good food and great company.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This loaded potato soup is smooth, creamy, and brimming with flavor. The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese creates a satisfying dish that is both rich and delicious. Each spoonful is a delightful experience that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes and chop the onion.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes, broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it in batches to a regular blender. For a chunkier texture, leave some potato pieces intact.
- Add Creaminess: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Heat gently without boiling, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, additional cheese, and chopped green onions.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
