loaded potato soup

Dive into Comfort – Crafting a Hearty Pot of Loaded Potato Soup Magic!

Get ready to indulge in the warmth and comfort of a steaming bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. This recipe is a celebration of velvety russet potatoes, aromatic onions, and the richness of butter, all coming together in a symphony of flavors. Whether you’re craving a soul-soothing meal or planning a cozy gathering, this loaded potato soup is a culinary hug that will leave you yearning for more.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks (about 1-1/2 inch)
• 1/2 cup of chopped sweet onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup (1/2 to 1 stick) salted butter
• Water to cover
• 1 (12 ounces) can evaporated milk
• Shredded cheese, for garnish, optional

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Peel and Cut:
   • Begin by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into large chunks, approximately 1-1/2 inches in size.

Step 2: Start the Base

2. Sauté Aromatics:
   • In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped sweet onion and celery in a dollop of butter until softened and fragrant.
3. Create Roux:
   • Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly to form a roux. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

4. Add Potatoes:
   • Gently introduce the potato chunks to the pot, coating them in the roux mixture.
5. Seasoning Time:
   • Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust the quantities based on your flavor preferences.
6. Butter Indulgence:
   • Add the remaining butter to the pot, allowing it to melt and contribute to the richness of the soup.

Step 4: Simmer and Blend

7. Cover with Water:
   • Pour enough water into the pot to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
8. Simmer to Perfection:
   • Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, absorbing the flavors of the broth.
9. Evaporated Milk Addition:
   • Pour in the evaporated milk, creating a creamy and luxurious texture. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

10. Check for Seasoning:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
11. Blend for Creaminess:
    • For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
12. Garnish with Cheese:
    • If desired, garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. The warmth of the soup will melt the cheese into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Serve Warm

13. Ladle and Enjoy:
    • Ladle the loaded potato soup into bowls, ensuring each serving is brimming with creamy goodness and flavorful bites.
14. Optional Garnishes:
    • Customize each bowl with additional toppings such as crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

Cook Notes:

• Experiment with different potato varieties for subtle flavor variations.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more water or evaporated milk based on your preference.

Variations:

Broccoli and Cheddar Twist:

• Add steamed broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese to the soup for a comforting broccoli cheddar potato variation.

Loaded Baked Potato Fusion:

• Incorporate elements of a loaded baked potato by including bacon bits, chives, and a dollop of sour cream as toppings.

Spicy Southwest Adventure:

• Infuse a kick of spice by adding diced jalapeños, cumin, and a sprinkle of paprika for a southwestern flair.

Keto Versions:

• Swap russet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
• Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour for thickening.

Low Carb Version:

• Opt for a mixture of cauliflower and turnips instead of potatoes for a reduced-carb option.
• Replace evaporated milk with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream.

In conclusion, Loaded Potato Soup is a culinary masterpiece that beckons with its creamy allure and hearty flavors. Whether you savor it as a standalone comfort dish or elevate it with personalized garnishes, this recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity. So, embrace the warmth, savor the richness, and share the joy of a bowl filled with loaded potato goodness. This soup is more than a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, a celebration of flavors that soothes both body and soul. Warm your pots, gather your ingredients, and immerse yourself in the delightful world of Loaded Potato Soup. Your taste buds will thank you!