Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a warm and creamy dish that satisfies your cravings while being perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, this soup brings comfort and flavor to your table. With delicious ingredients like crispy turkey bacon and melted cheddar cheese, Loaded Baked Potato Soup stands out with its rich taste and heartiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and simple cooking steps.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices, cheese, and bacon creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every spoonful.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a hearty meal or serve it as a side at gatherings, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients based on your preferences.
- Comforting Warmth: Perfect for cold days, this soup provides warmth and comfort that everyone will love.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking Loaded Baked Potato Soup, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large saucepan: Ideal for cooking large batches of soup evenly without overflow.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for dicing potatoes and onions efficiently.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts which are essential for even cooking.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup:
- 4 large potatoes (diced)
- water (enough to cover top of potatoes)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cups milk
- 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (more to garnish)
- 6 slices turkey bacon (fried)
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add the diced potatoes. Cover them with water (about 3–4 cups) and bring to a boil. Cook until they are tender.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once the potatoes are cooked:
* Add the milk, chicken bouillon cubes, diced onions, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and one slice of bacon.
* Mix everything well until combined.
Step 3: Thicken the Soup
Quickly add flour to the mixture:
1. Stir until no lumps appear.
2. Reduce the heat to low.
3. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes while occasionally stirring.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Remove from heat:
* Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted completely into the soup.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
For serving:
1. Dice the remaining slices of turkey bacon.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls.
3. Garnish each bowl with additional cheese and diced bacon on top.
Enjoy your delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup!
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
Top with Extra Ingredients
- Chopped Green Onions – Add a fresh crunch and sharp flavor.
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.
- Croutons – For added texture, sprinkle some crunchy croutons on top.
Pair with Bread
- Garlic Bread – This warm, buttery bread complements the soup perfectly.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft rolls are ideal for dipping into the soup.
Create a Full Meal
- Salad – A light garden salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich – The classic pairing makes for a hearty meal.
How to Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup
To ensure your Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh potatoes and vegetables enhance the flavor.
- Cook Potatoes Thoroughly – Make sure the potatoes are soft for a creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency – If too thick, add more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Let It Simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer lets flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Loaded Baked Potato Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing enhances the meal.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables – Colorful veggies add nutrition and flavor variety.
- Buffalo Chicken Wings – Spicy wings create a fun and hearty combo.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread complements the savory soup well.
- Pita Chips with Hummus – A healthy option that offers great crunch and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Loaded Baked Potato Soup to the next level. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping the cooking time: Ensure you cook the potatoes until tender. Undercooking will leave you with a gritty texture.
- Neglecting to stir: Stirring occasionally while it simmers is crucial. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Using low-quality cheese: Always opt for good-quality cheddar cheese. It melts better and enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Overlooking seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper will make sure your Loaded Baked Potato Soup is flavorful.
- Ignoring garnishes: Don’t forget toppings like extra cheese or crispy bacon. They add texture and visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable stock and omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Feel free to add toppings like sour cream, green onions, or different types of cheese for added flavor and variety.
Is Loaded Baked Potato Soup healthy?
While it’s rich and creamy, using low-fat milk and reducing cheese can make it lighter without sacrificing flavor.
What sides pair well with Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
This hearty soup pairs nicely with salads, crusty bread, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy base allows for customization with various toppings or ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy all its delicious possibilities!
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Loaded Baked Potato Soup, a creamy and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family gatherings, this soup combines tender potatoes, crispy turkey bacon, and melted cheddar cheese for a flavor explosion in every spoonful. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this recipe is designed for everyone—from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. Serve it as a main course or as a delightful side at your next gathering; either way, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 4 large diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cups milk
- 3 chicken bouillon cubes
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices turkey bacon
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the diced potatoes in enough water to cover until tender.
- Add milk, bouillon cubes, onions, parsley, garlic powder, basil, salt, pepper, hot sauce, and one slice of bacon to the cooked potatoes. Mix well.
- Stir in flour until no lumps remain. Lower the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and fold in shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted.
- Serve garnished with diced bacon and additional cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Leave a Comment