Introduction
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish packed with flavors of crispy bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for cold nights and family dinners. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 6 strips crispy bacon, crumbled (or turkey bacon for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork.
- 3. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender.
- 4. Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, then peel and roughly mash them.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- 1. While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
- 2. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- 3. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
- 1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- 2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- 3. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux.
- 4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
- 5. Add the mashed potatoes and stir to combine.
Step 4: Add Dairy and Seasonings
- 1. Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- 2. Add salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- 3. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Blend for a Creamier Texture (Optional)
- 1. If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency.
- 2. If you like it chunky, leave the potatoes as they are.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
- 1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
- 2. Top each serving with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions.
- 3. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Use russet potatoes for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more milk or broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth.
Enjoy your homemade Loaded Baked Potato Soup—a perfect, cozy meal for any occasion!