Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Mash the Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are cooked, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the pot. You can mash as much or as little as you like depending on how creamy or chunky you want the soup. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup.
Add Dairy and Season:
Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and sour cream. Continue to cook on low for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Cheese and Bacon:
Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, add the crumbled bacon and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of crispy bread or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with extra toppings such as a dollop of sour cream, more bacon bits, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container. When reheating, add a little more milk or broth to restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken slightly when stored.
Freezing:
This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after freezing due to the dairy. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stove.
Variants:
Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup:
Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can add extra vegetables like leeks or carrots for additional flavor.
Spicy Loaded Potato Soup:
Add a kick to your soup by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. This version pairs well with a dollop of sour cream to balance the heat.
Slow Cooker Version:
For a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients (except for the dairy, cheese, and bacon) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours. Stir in the cream, milk, sour cream, cheese, and bacon during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Loaded Sweet Potato Soup:
For a slightly sweeter twist, swap the russet potatoes with sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory toppings.
FAQ:
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove and add a little extra milk or cream if needed to thin it out.
2. Can I use other types of cheese?
While sharp cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative and omitting the sour cream and cheese. You can also use plant-based bacon for a completely dairy-free version.
4. Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or corn for added texture and flavor. Simply sauté them with the onions at the beginning of the recipe.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
If you like your soup with a little more heat, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the soup to give it an extra kick.
Conclusion:
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or as a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and satisfying without all the hassle. Don’t forget the toppings—cheese, bacon, and green onions—because they elevate this soup into something truly special. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort with every spoonful!
ADVERTISEMENT
