Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Introduction

Welcome to our delicious recipe for Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This hearty soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave comfort food. Packed with flavors and loaded with toppings, this soup will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients

To make this amazing Loaded Baked Potato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

– 6 large baking potatoes

– 1/2 cup butter

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

– 4 cups chicken broth

– 2 cups milk

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup chopped green onions

– 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to make Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Prick them with a fork and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 1 hour or until they are tender. Allow the potatoes to cool, peel them, and then coarsely chop them into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

Add the chopped potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.

Step 4: Add the Creaminess

Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and all the ingredients are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and additional shredded cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

There are endless variations you can try with this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe. Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Loaded Twice-Baked Potato Soup

If you love twice-baked potatoes, you can take this soup to the next level. After blending the soup, stir in some crispy diced cooked potatoes, and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, and bacon.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out perfectly:

– Use starchy baking potatoes like Russet for the best texture.

– Don’t overmix the soup after adding the potatoes to maintain some chunkiness.

– Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more milk or broth if desired.

– Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking, such as adding chopped tomatoes or jalapenos for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for those cold winter nights. With its creamy texture, hearty potatoes, and delicious toppings, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra milk or broth to adjust the consistency.

2. Can I freeze the soup?

While it is possible to freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It is best to consume it within a few days for the best taste and texture.

3. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack to add your own twist to the soup.