Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is packed with the flavors of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s a perfect dish to warm up after a long day or serve for a cozy family dinner.

Here’s a full recipe with a history, ingredients, methods, benefits, and nutrition information.

Introduction to Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting soup made with baked potatoes, bacon, cheese, and sour cream, offering the same flavors found in a loaded baked potato but in soup form. It’s rich, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or pairing it with a salad or sandwich, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Extra cheese and bacon bits for topping

Instructions:

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks. Set them aside.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the chopped onions and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the roux: Add the butter to the pot and allow it to melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux that will help thicken the soup.
5. Add the broth and potatoes: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
6. Blend the soup (optional): Use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup for a creamier texture, or use a regular blender in batches. If you prefer a chunky soup, skip this step.
7. Add the cream and sour cream: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add cheese and bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add half of the crispy bacon back into the soup and reserve the other half for topping.
9. Simmer and serve: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon, extra cheese, and chopped green onions.

Methods for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

• Stovetop Method: The traditional way to make loaded baked potato soup is on the stovetop, where you cook the bacon, sauté the vegetables, and simmer everything in a large pot.
• Slow Cooker Method: To make this soup in a slow cooker, you can add the potatoes, bacon, onion, garlic, and chicken broth to the crockpot. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Once the potatoes are tender, blend part of the soup, add the cream, cheese, and sour cream, and let it cook for another 30 minutes.
• Instant Pot Method: For a faster version, cook the potatoes, bacon, onion, garlic, and broth in the Instant Pot on high pressure for 10 minutes. Then, use the sauté function to add the cream, cheese, and sour cream, stirring until the soup is smooth.

History of Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a modern American dish inspired by the classic baked potato. The idea of “loading” a potato with toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream has been a popular trend for many years. This soup version likely evolved from the popularity of baked potatoes served with these same toppings, offering a more comforting, hearty option for the colder months.

Benefits of Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

• Rich in Carbohydrates: The potatoes provide a good source of carbs, which give you energy throughout the day.
• Protein from Bacon: Bacon adds protein to the soup, which helps to keep you feeling full.
• Calcium from Cheese and Cream: The cheese and heavy cream offer a rich source of calcium, which is important for bone health.
• Rich in Vitamins: Potatoes contain vitamin C, while green onions provide antioxidants and essential vitamins.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Cholesterol: 55mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.)

Conclusion:

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It combines the flavors of a baked potato with creamy broth, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon for a deliciously rich and hearty dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Whether served as a main course or paired with a fresh salad, Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Lovers of Comfort Food:

If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy, and savory dishes, Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a must-try. It’s perfect for those who enjoy rich, indulgent meals and are looking for a bowl of something filling and flavorful. This soup is sure to be a favorite in your household, especially when the weather turns cold.

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy a bowl of this hearty and comforting soup with family or friends. Enjoy!