Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Looking for a cozy, soul-warming meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Look no further than this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe! It's rich, creamy, and loaded with all your favorite baked potato toppings like bacon, cheese, and sour cream. Whether it's for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just a weeknight meal, this soup is the perfect way to indulge. Stick with me, and by the end of this article, you'll be ready to create the ultimate comfort dish that everyone will rave about.

this Recipe

What Is Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty soup that takes all the best elements of a loaded baked potato and transforms them into a spoonable delight. Imagine the fluffiness of baked potatoes, the smokiness of crispy bacon, the richness of melted cheese, and the cool tang of sour cream—all mingling together in one satisfying bowl. This is the kind of soup that brings comfort on a cold day or elevates any simple meal into something special.

Ingredients List for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to create the ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Soup. These ingredients ensure that every spoonful is filled with flavor and texture:

• 4 large russet potatoes – Russets are starchy and perfect for creating a creamy soup base.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Adds depth to the flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic touch.
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds smoky, salty flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Forms the base of the soup, providing richness.
• 2 cups heavy cream – Makes the soup luxuriously creamy.
• 1 cup sour cream – Gives a tangy kick that balances the richness.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, gooey, cheesy goodness.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps cook the onions.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Green onions or chives for garnish – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Additional Ingredients for a Flavor Boost

You can take this recipe up a notch with some extra ingredients that will boost the flavor and texture:

• ¼ cup cream cheese – Adds extra creaminess.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Gives a slight tang and depth.
• Paprika or cayenne pepper – For a bit of heat if you like spicy.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – For added cheesy richness.
• Croutons – For some crunchy texture on top.

Substitutions and Variations

Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup is easy to personalize based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few substitutions and variations to try:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add sautéed mushrooms for a savory, umami flavor.
• Lighter version: Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk to cut down on calories. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
• Gluten-free option: This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you make sure your chicken broth and bacon are gluten-free.
• Cheese alternatives: For those who avoid dairy, use a dairy-free cheese substitute and replace the sour cream with a plant-based version.
• Add veggies: Throw in some cooked broccoli, corn, or even spinach for an extra boost of nutrition and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients lined up, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Begin by baking the potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, pierce them with a fork, and bake directly on the oven rack for about 45 minutes or until soft. Once they’re done, let them cool slightly, then peel and roughly mash them. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Once cool, crumble it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Soup Base

Add the chicken broth to the pot, followed by the mashed potatoes. Stir to combine, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add the Bacon and Cheese

Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy base. Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more chicken broth if it’s too thick.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the cheese has melted, remove the soup from the heat and stir in the sour cream. This will give the soup a tangy kick and make it extra creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Cook Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Bake the potatoes: This step brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and makes them easier to mash.
2. Cook the bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: Sautéing the aromatics helps develop the base flavor of the soup.
4. Create the soup base: Adding broth and cream to the mashed potatoes ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
5. Incorporate the cheese and bacon: These toppings transform the soup from good to amazing.
6. Stir in the sour cream: This final touch adds tang and richness, making each bite more flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe like Loaded Baked Potato Soup, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong potatoes: Stick with russet potatoes, as they break down easily and create a creamier texture. Waxy potatoes won’t give you the same result.
• Not blending properly: If you want an ultra-smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender before adding the bacon and cheese.
• Adding the sour cream too early: Always add sour cream at the end to prevent curdling.
• Overcooking the soup: Once all the ingredients are in, don’t boil the soup vigorously, as this can cause the dairy to separate.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your Loaded Baked Potato Soup even more appetizing. Here are some tips for serving and showcasing this hearty dish:

• Use a generous amount of toppings: Garnish each bowl with extra crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions or chives. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look irresistible.
• Serve in a bread bowl: For a fun and cozy touch, hollow out small round loaves of bread and serve the soup inside. The bread will soak up the delicious soup, and guests can eat the bowl, too!
• Add some crunch: Top with croutons or even crushed potato chips for a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup in wide, shallow bowls to show off the toppings. Offer additional garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream on the side, so everyone can customize their bowl to their liking. A crusty loaf of bread or homemade rolls makes the perfect side to soak up every last drop of the soup.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Take your soup presentation to the next level by considering these creative ideas:

• Mason jars: Serve individual portions of soup in mason jars for a rustic and trendy look.
• Mini soup shooters: If you’re hosting a party, serve mini portions of the soup in shot glasses for a fun appetizer.
• Personalized toppings bar: Set up a toppings bar where guests can add their favorite extras like jalapeños, different cheeses, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze leftovers, leave out the dairy (heavy cream and sour cream) and add them when reheating the soup.
• Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick for your liking, add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover baked potatoes?

Yes! Using leftover baked potatoes is a great time-saver. Just peel and mash them as instructed, and proceed with the recipe.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Cook the bacon and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the sour cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes.

How do I reheat the soup without curdling?

Reheat the soup on low heat, stirring frequently, and avoid bringing it to a boil to prevent the dairy from separating.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead

of chicken broth.

Conclusion

There you have it—your ultimate guide to making the best Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This hearty, comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite, and with so many variations and tips, it’s easy to make it your own. Whether you're enjoying it on a cold winter night or serving it to friends and family, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to dig into a bowl of creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible goodness!

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