Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Introduction
Few dishes rival the comforting, indulgent flavor of a Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It takes everything you love about a loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, gooey cheese, tangy sour cream, and buttery potatoes—and transforms it into a rich, creamy soup. Perfect for a cold evening, a family gathering, or when you simply need a bowl of warmth, this soup is easy to make and endlessly customizable. With its hearty ingredients and decadent toppings, every spoonful feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Key Points and Tips
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup.
- Consistency: Blend some of the soup for a creamier texture while leaving chunks for a heartier bite.
- Bacon Perfection: Cook bacon until crispy and reserve the drippings to enhance flavor in the base.
- Dairy Balance: Add milk or cream at the end to prevent curdling.
- Toppings Galore: Customize with your favorite baked potato toppings—green onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or even diced jalapeños.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions or chives
- A dollop of sour cream
- Croutons (optional)
