Oh, Loaded Baked Potato Soup! This creamy, hearty soup has a special place in my heart – and my kitchen! I remember the first time I made it; it was a cozy fall evening, and my friends gathered around for a comfort-food feast. I had just discovered this recipe, and I couldn’t wait to impress them. As I stirred that velvety soup and topped it with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions, I felt like a culinary magician. The best part? They devoured it and begged for seconds, which made my heart skip a beat with joy!
This soup is the ultimate winter warmer: smooth, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve on a chilly night, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is here to save the day. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and I guarantee it’ll have your loved ones asking for the recipe!
What’s in Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Let’s break down the ingredients that come together to create this delicious masterpiece!
Potatoes: Of course, the star of the show! I love using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, but Russets work beautifully as well.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds depth and flavor to the base of the soup. White or yellow onions will do great!
Garlic: A clove or two of garlic really elevates the flavor. I’m a garlic lover, so I usually add a bit more!
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: This provides the lovely liquid base for the soup. Go for low-sodium versions to keep the soup from being too salty.
Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess, heavy cream is simply a must. If you want to lighten things up, you can substitute with half-and-half or milk.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar takes this soup to the next level. I recommend using sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor!
Bacon: When crispy, bacon adds a smoky and savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup. Don’t skimp on this; it’s what makes it “loaded!”
Green Onions: Sliced green onions lend a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color as a garnish.
Is Loaded Baked Potato Soup Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect. Loaded Baked Potato Soup is indeed comforting, but it isn’t what you’d call a health food.
Potatoes: They are a great source of potassium and vitamins, but let’s be honest; they are also high in carbohydrates. Moderation is the name of the game!
Bacon: While delicious, bacon is not the healthiest protein, especially if you’re watching your saturated fat intake. You can always switch to turkey bacon or leave it out altogether for a vegetarian version.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness but also calories. As mentioned, substituting it with lower-fat options can help lighten the dish without losing creaminess.
In short, enjoy this soup as an occasional treat rather than an everyday staple, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced (serves 4-6)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream for serving
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Keep a tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor!
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Toss in the diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Once the potatoes are fork-tender, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks for heartiness.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Let it cook for a few more minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, the remaining cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. A dollop of sour cream is also a nice touch if you’re feeling fancy!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to mix things up:
– Add some vegetables! Chopped broccoli or spinach can be a delightful addition.
– For a spicy kick, toss in some jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
– Want to make it a complete meal? Serve the soup alongside a fresh salad or a crusty baguette.
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the comfort food you’ve been craving, and I’m sure you and your loved ones will enjoy it just as much as I do! So, gather your ingredients, grab that cozy sweater, and let’s get cooking. When you make this soup, I’d love to hear how it turns out; share your experiences in the comments! Enjoy!