The aroma of creamy loaded baked potato soup wafts through the air, inviting you to dive in. Imagine a warm bowl, overflowing with velvety goodness, crispy bacon bits, and a sprinkle of chives that dance playfully on top. This soup doesn’t just fill your belly; it wraps you in a cozy hug, making it perfect for chilly nights or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather. For more inspiration, check out this Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
There’s something magical about this dish that takes me back to my childhood. As a kid, I’d eagerly wait for cold winter evenings when my mom would whip up her famous potato soup. We’d gather around the table, laughter echoing as we savored each spoonful. Homemade Sourdough Croutons Now, I promise you this creamy loaded baked potato soup will create those same cherished memories for you and your loved ones.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy loaded baked potato soup is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
- Its rich flavor profile combines savory bacon with tangy cheese and fresh herbs for an irresistible taste sensation.
- The inviting visual appeal of this hearty soup will brighten any dinner table and make your family want seconds.
- Plus, it’s so versatile; customize toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture that creates a creamy base.
- Butter: Unsalted butter works best; it adds richness without overpowering the flavors.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the aroma and flavor, making the soup irresistible.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while adding flavor.
- Heavy Cream: For that luxurious creaminess; half-and-half can be used if you want something lighter.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon pieces provide crunch and a smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the soup, adding a rich flavor.
- Chives or Green Onions: Fresh herbs add color and brightness to finish off the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Potatoes
Begin by peeling and dicing about four medium-sized russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside like they’re waiting for their moment in the spotlight.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add one diced onion and three minced garlic cloves. Sauté until softened and fragrant—trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 3: Cook Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with six cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender—about fifteen minutes should do it!
Step 4: Create Creamy Goodness
Once your potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender (or transfer batches carefully to a regular blender) to puree part of the soup until smooth but leave some chunks for texture. Stir in one cup of heavy cream and let it simmer gently.
Step 5: Add Flavor Boosters
Mix in one cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Don’t forget those crispy bacon bits—add about half a cup here! Stir well while imagining how amazing it’ll taste.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle your creamy loaded baked potato soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, more crispy bacon bits if desired, and freshly chopped chives or green onions for that finishing touch.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every delicious spoonful as you reminisce about cozy nights spent with family around the dinner table!
You Must Know
- This creamy loaded baked potato soup offers more than just warmth; it makes cold nights feel like a cozy embrace.
- Customize the toppings based on your favorites for a delightful twist.
- Perfect for family dinners or a comforting solo meal, this soup is truly versatile.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by baking your potatoes until they’re tender. While they cool, sauté onions and garlic in butter for extra flavor. Just before blending, add broth and cream for that dreamy texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes for a healthier twist or add spices like smoked paprika for depth. Top with crispy bacon, cheese, or even chives to elevate your soup to culinary stardom.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture; their starchiness creates a creamy base.
- Avoid boiling the soup too long after adding dairy, as it can cause separation.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor.
It reminds me of that chilly evening last winter when I served this creamy loaded baked potato soup to my friends. They all claimed it was their new favorite meal, and honestly, who could resist that cheesy goodness?
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
To make creamy loaded baked potato soup, you’ll need russet potatoes, onion, garlic, vegetable broth or chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Toppings can include shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions for extra flavor. Fresh Caesar Salad Recipe Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad This combination creates a rich and satisfying soup that warms you up on a chilly day. Crispy Chicken Caesar Sandwich.
How long does it take to prepare Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Preparation of creamy loaded baked potato soup takes about 15 minutes, while cooking takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Therefore, you can have this delicious soup ready in under an hour. The simple steps involve cooking the potatoes until tender and blending them with the other ingredients for a velvety texture. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekends.
Can I make Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make creamy loaded baked potato soup ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. This makes it convenient for meal prep.
What variations can I try with Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
There are many fun variations you can try with creamy loaded baked potato soup. For instance, you could add broccoli or cheese to create a loaded veggie version. Spicy elements like jalapeños or smoked paprika can add heat. You may also substitute half-and-half for cream or use vegan alternatives to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup :
Creamy loaded baked potato soup is a delightful dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. With basic ingredients like potatoes and broth combined with flavorful toppings, it becomes a favorite among families. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated from leftovers, this soup is versatile and satisfying. Remember to explore different variations to keep things exciting! Enjoy your heartwarming bowl of creamy goodness!
Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 portions 1x
Description
Creamy loaded baked potato soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines velvety russet potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese into a warm, satisfying bowl. Ideal for chilly nights or family gatherings, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Dive into this rich and hearty dish that evokes nostalgic memories while bringing loved ones together.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crispy bacon bits
- Chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Cook Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Create Creamy Goodness: Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer gently.
- Add Flavor Boosters: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits until melted and combined.
- Serve It Up: Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra cheese, bacon bits, and chopped chives or green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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