Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe that’s packed with flavors and hearty ingredients. Featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chives, this delicious soup is the ultimate cozy meal perfect for chilly days. Easy to make and sure to please the whole family, it’s a bowl full of rich, satisfying goodness.
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a favorite for a reason. With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, it has become a staple in many households during colder months. The combination of potatoes, bacon, and cheese makes it a satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.
Comfort Food at Its Best
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. This hearty soup encapsulates the cozy essence of home-cooked meals, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings. The creamy texture and rich flavors are soothing, offering a delightful escape from the day’s stresses. Each spoonful is a blend of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar, creating a satisfying balance that's sure to warm both your body and soul.
One of the best qualities of this soup is its versatility. It can be served as a satisfying main course or as an appetizer before your favorite meal. You can customize the toppings to suit your preferences, whether you prefer more bacon, additional cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to gatherings with family and friends.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not just delicious—it's also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later. This makes it an excellent option for busy weekdays or when you simply want a comforting meal without the fuss. Just reheat a portion, toss in your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a hearty meal ready in minutes.
Additionally, this soup keeps well and its flavors tend to develop even more after a day or two in the fridge. This makes it a great choice for making ahead and enjoying the next day. Whether it's for lunch or dinner, knowing that a warm, hearty soup awaits you adds a bit of joy to your day.
Nutritional Benefits of Ingredients
While this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients contribute to overall health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. When combined with the protein from bacon and cheese, this soup provides a balanced meal that can sustain you throughout the day.
Moreover, using fresh, wholesome ingredients allows you to better control the nutritional content. You can easily make this soup healthier by opting for low-fat cheese or turkey bacon, making it a more nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor. This flexibility means that you can enjoy a bowl of comfort without the guilt.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives, for garnish
Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or the availability of items in your pantry.
Instructions
Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Sauté the Onions
In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend and Finish the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Top each bowl with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chives before serving.
Enjoy your warm and hearty Loaded Baked Potato Soup!
Tips for the Best Soup
To ensure your Loaded Baked Potato Soup reaches its full potential, consider using fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh russet potatoes and high-quality cheese will elevate the flavors significantly. Additionally, don't rush the simmering process; allowing the potatoes to cook until they're thoroughly tender will help create a richer base for the soup.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some diced potatoes before blending and stir them back in after pureeing the mixture. This gives your soup more texture and bite, balancing the creaminess with hearty pieces of potato. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end; sometimes a little extra salt or pepper makes a world of difference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Loaded Baked Potato Soup with a warm crusty bread for dipping. A side of garlic bread or homemade biscuits pairs wonderfully as well, enhancing the comforting experience of the meal. You can also turn your soup into a complete meal by adding a side salad topped with vibrant veggies and a light vinaigrette, providing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
When entertaining, consider setting up a topping bar with various options like sour cream, chopped green onions, or even jalapeños for a kick. This interactive element not only encourages personalized bowls but also makes for a fun dining experience that guests will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with this creamy and comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe that’s packed with flavors and hearty ingredients. Featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of chives, this delicious soup is the ultimate cozy meal perfect for chilly days. Easy to make and sure to please the whole family, it’s a bowl full of rich, satisfying goodness.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Top each bowl with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chives before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg