Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Hearty and Flavorful Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfying warmth and indulgent flavors of loaded baked potato soup. This creamy and comforting soup is packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese, making it the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this loaded baked potato soup is sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious soup from scratch, along with answering common questions and providing variations to suit different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • 3-5 pieces thick-cut bacon, sliced
  • 5 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 5 small russets diced into small pieces) OR one 2lb bag of frozen hash brown potatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup milk (2% or whole is best)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sour cream (full fat is best)
  • 1 cup medium or sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • Sliced green onion, sour cream, and/or cheddar cheese to top

Instructions

  1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
  2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, dried onion flakes, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to the pot with the bacon grease. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
  3. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, partially mash the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup to your desired consistency.
  4. Stir in the milk, heavy cream, sour cream, and cheddar cheese until well combined. Continue to cook the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
  5. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
  6. Serve the loaded baked potato soup hot, topped with crispy bacon pieces, sliced green onion, a dollop of sour cream, and/or extra cheddar cheese.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that all ingredients, including chicken broth and any dairy products, are certified gluten-free to make this soup suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
  • Adding Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional content of the soup by adding diced carrots, celery, or broccoli along with the potatoes.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives before serving.
  • Creamier Texture: For an even creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup in a blender or food processor before adding back to the pot.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can adapt this loaded baked potato soup recipe:

  • Keto Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to lower the carb content. Use heavy cream, sour cream, and full-fat cheese to keep the soup keto-friendly.
  • Low-Carb Version: Substitute the potatoes with diced radishes or zucchini for a lower-carb alternative. Choose lower-carb dairy options such as almond milk, coconut cream, or Greek yogurt instead of milk, heavy cream, and sour cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze leftover soup? A: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the potatoes and dairy products may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for later consumption.

Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Additional options include shredded cheese, crispy fried onions, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado.

Loaded baked potato soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, hearty potatoes, and flavorful toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy night in, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delicious soup, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience. From its crispy bacon to its gooey cheese, every spoonful of loaded baked potato soup is a delight for the senses.

Enjoy!