Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Are you craving a warm, hearty meal that will satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds? Look no further than this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with all the flavors you love in a classic baked potato—bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions—transformed into a comforting bowl of soup. Whether you're feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe will be a hit. Read on to discover how to make the ultimate bowl of loaded baked potato soup, complete with tips and tricks to perfect it.

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What is Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, savory soup inspired by the toppings of a classic baked potato. Imagine fluffy potatoes, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and melted cheese all combined in a luxurious, velvety soup base. It’s perfect for chilly nights, a cozy lunch, or even a special family dinner. Packed with flavor, this soup is a meal in itself, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Ingredients List for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious and creamy soup:

1. 6 large russet potatoes – Baked and peeled.
2. ½ pound bacon – Cooked until crispy, crumbled, and divided for topping.
3. 1 medium onion – Diced finely.
4. 3 cloves garlic – Minced.
5. 4 cups chicken broth – Adds flavor and richness to the soup base.
6. 2 cups heavy cream – For an ultra-creamy texture.
7. 1 cup sour cream – Provides tang and richness.
8. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar works best for flavor.
9. 2 tablespoons butter – For sautéing the onions and garlic.
10. Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
11. Green onions or chives – Chopped for garnish.

Substitutions and Variations for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

There’s room for flexibility in this recipe, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary preferences:

1. Lighter Option: You can swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version of the soup. However, keep in mind that this will reduce the creaminess.
2. Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add mushrooms or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
3. Cheese Swap: While sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a kick of spice.
4. Gluten-Free Version: If you're gluten-sensitive, make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free, or make your own broth at home.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by baking the russet potatoes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), poke a few holes in each potato with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooled, peel and roughly mash them.
2. Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes are baking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled. Set aside for garnishing.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes: Pour the chicken broth into the pot and stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Add the roughly mashed baked potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the mixture to your desired consistency. If you like chunks of potato in your soup, skip this step and leave the potatoes as they are.
6. Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
7. Season and Adjust: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the soup to simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

How to Cook Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure that your loaded baked potato soup turns out perfectly, follow these steps:

1. Bake the Potatoes to Perfection: Baking the potatoes beforehand gives the soup that distinctive baked potato flavor. Make sure the potatoes are fully tender before adding them to the soup.
2. Crisp the Bacon for Texture: Cook the bacon until crispy to add both flavor and texture to the soup. Soft bacon won’t provide the same delightful crunch.
3. Balance Creaminess and Chunkiness: Depending on your texture preference, blend part or all of the soup. For a heartier bite, leave the potatoes chunky.
4. Layer in the Cheese Gradually: Don’t dump all the cheese at once; it’s better to add it slowly so it melts evenly without clumping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Soup: Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream and cheese. High heat can cause the dairy to curdle, so stick to a gentle simmer.
2. Under-seasoning: Potatoes can absorb a lot of salt, so be sure to taste your soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
3. Skipping Garnishes: Don’t underestimate the importance of toppings! The bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions not only add to the flavor but also contribute to the overall presentation of the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Presentation is key when it comes to a dish as indulgent as loaded baked potato soup. Here are some tips to elevate the look of your soup:

1. Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun and cozy presentation, serve your soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also adds a satisfying carb element.
2. Garnish Generously: Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, a handful of shredded cheese, and some freshly chopped green onions or chives. The garnishes give the soup that "loaded" appearance.
3. Add Fresh Herbs: For a pop of color and freshness, garnish the soup with fresh parsley or cilantro.
4. Cheese Crisps: For an added crunch, bake thin slices of cheddar cheese in the oven until crispy and place one on top of the soup just before serving.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be served as a main course, but it also pairs well with a few side dishes:

1. Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
2. Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of creamy goodness.
3. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair the soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal combo.

Presentation Ideas for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

When serving guests or making a special meal, the way you present the soup can make all the difference. Here are a few creative ideas:

1. Mason Jar Presentation: Serve your soup in wide-mouth mason jars for a rustic and Instagram-worthy look.
2. Individual Cast Iron Bowls: Serve the soup in mini cast iron bowls to keep the soup hot and add a homestyle touch.
3. Topping Bar: Create a DIY topping bar where guests can load up their own bowls with bacon bits, cheese, sour cream, and chives.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
2. Freezing: You can freeze this soup, but note that soups with cream can sometimes separate when thawed. If freezing, wait to add the cream until you’ve reheated the soup.
3. Use Leftover Potatoes: If you have leftover baked potatoes, this soup is a great way to repurpose them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use instant potatoes in this soup?
   While you can use instant mashed potatoes for convenience, the texture and flavor won’t be quite the same as using freshly baked potatoes.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes! After sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer them to a slow cooker along with the potatoes and broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in the cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
   Add the cheese gradually and make sure the soup is at a low simmer rather than boiling. Stir constantly as you add the cheese to ensure even melting.
4. Can I use other types of potatoes?
   Russet potatoes work best because they are starchy and provide the desired creamy texture. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are another good option for a slightly richer flavor.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a comforting, indulgent dish that combines the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato into a creamy, flavorful soup. Perfect for cold weather or whenever you're in need of some cozy comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With a few tips and variations, you can customize this dish to suit your taste. So go ahead and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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