Make creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup with bacon in 30 minutes! This comforting recipe blends tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese for a hearty delight.
When the cold winter wind blows, nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy potato soup. This loaded baked potato soup recipe is a true delight. It combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese into a satisfying masterpiece.
With just 35 minutes of prep time, you can make a batch for 8 people. Each serving has 502 calories, perfect for those chilly days.
The secret to this recipe’s incredible taste is the perfect balance of fresh ingredients and classic comfort food staples. From the velvety potatoes to the savory bacon, every element comes together. This dish will have your family and friends clamoring for seconds.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just want a comforting meal, this loaded baked potato soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Get ready for a cozy, hearty soup perfect for cold winter days – the loaded baked potato soup. It’s a must-try that offers a warm, satisfying experience. Its rich potato flavor and creamy texture make it the ultimate winter warmer and comfort food for any time of the year.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
The loaded baked potato soup is a classic dish full of flavor. It starts with crispy bacon, adding a smoky taste and indulgence. The bacon fat is used to sauté aromatic vegetables, creating a flavorful base. A roux thickens the soup, making it creamy and velvety.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Looking for a comforting meal or a dish to share with friends and family? This loaded baked potato soup is ideal. It’s versatile for many occasions, from cozy family dinners to casual gatherings. The mix of hearty potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich broth will satisfy everyone.
“This loaded baked potato soup is a true winter warmer that warms the soul. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion!”
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this tasty Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon, you’ll need some fresh ingredients and pantry staples. The main parts are potatoes, bacon bits, butter, garlic, onion, flour, milk, half and half, chicken stock, and seasonings.
Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 stalk of celery, diced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme (optional)
The Essential Comfort Food Staples
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of low-fat milk
- 1 cup of half and half
- 2 cups of chicken stock
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, divided into mild and sharp
- ¾ cup of sour cream
- 2 tablespoons of chives, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
With these ingredients, you’ll make a creamy and flavorful Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon. It’s sure to please your taste buds.
Preparing the Potatoes
Making a tasty creamy potato soup starts with the potatoes. This recipe needs tender, potato chunks. They blend well into the soup, making it comforting and satisfying.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
For a creamy potato soup, Yukon Gold potatoes are best. They’re creamy and buttery, perfect for the soup. You can also use Russet potatoes. They’re starchier and thicken the soup.
Tips for Peeling and Chopping
- Peel the potatoes with a vegetable peeler, removing any blemishes or eyes.
- Then, cut them into 1-inch chunks. Make sure they’re all the same size for even cooking.
- Rinse the chunks in cold water to remove excess starch. This prevents the soup from becoming gummy.
- Finally, dry the potatoes with paper towels before adding them to the soup.
Getting the tender potatoes right is crucial for a great creamy potato soup. Follow these steps for a comforting and delicious dish.
Cooking the Soup Base
To make a delicious soup base, start by cooking the aromatic vegetables. Use a large pot or Dutch oven. Cook the onion and celery in bacon fat or butter over medium heat until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This lets the garlic release its fragrant oils.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Building a rich, chicken stock-based soup starts with sautéing the aromatics well. This step is crucial for developing the complex flavors that will fill the dish. Make sure to stir the vegetables often to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Adding in Stock and Seasonings
After the aromatics are softened, it’s time to build the soup base. Start by whisking in the flour, milk, and half-and-half. Then, add the chicken stock slowly. Bring the mixture to a light simmer and stir in kosher salt, garlic salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. This step creates a rich, creamy base for the loaded baked potato soup.
“The key to a truly satisfying and comforting soup is in the details – from the perfectly sautéed aromatics to the carefully balanced seasonings.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Celery | 4 stalks |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
| Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Milk | 2 1/2 cups |
| Half-and-half | 2 1/2 cups |
| Chicken stock | 2 cups |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp |
| Garlic salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Incorporating the Bacon
No loaded baked potato soup is complete without crispy bacon. We’ll show you how to add bacon to make your soup even better. This will enhance both the flavors and textures of your comforting soup.
Choosing Your Bacon Wisely
For the best taste and crunch, choose thick-cut bacon. This type of bacon adds a nice contrast to the creamy soup. Use 6 strips of high-quality, thick-cut bacon for the right mix of bacon bits and fat.
Tips for Crispy Bacon
- Cook the bacon in a cold 8-quart stockpot over medium heat. This slow, steady heating process ensures the fat renders properly, making the bacon crispy.
- Cook the bacon for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Reserve 3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat to use for sautéing the vegetables. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the soup base.
- Crumble or chop the cooked bacon into bite-sized bacon bits to be added back into the soup just before serving. This adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
By following these tips, your crispy bacon will be the perfect addition to your loaded baked potato soup. It adds a savory and satisfying element to every spoonful.
Creamy Texture Enhancements
To make a creamy potato soup rich and velvety, mix different dairy products. This recipe uses milk, half-and-half, and heavy cream for a smooth texture. A roux made from flour also thickens the soup, making it just right.
Using Dairy Alternatives
Want to make the dish lighter or fit dietary needs? Try using evaporated milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk instead of heavy cream. These options cut down on fat and calories but keep the creamy feel.
Thickening Options for the Soup
- Blend half of the cooked potatoes until smooth, then mix them back into the pot. This makes a creamy base and keeps some potato chunks for texture.
- Use a roux of butter and flour to thicken the creamy potato soup to your liking.
- Add a cornstarch or arrowroot slurry to make the soup even thicker and creamier.
Try these thickening methods to get the perfect creamy potato soup texture. Your family and friends will love it.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Evaporated Milk or Whole Milk | 2 cups |
| Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half | 1/2 cup |
| Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder | To Taste |
| Green Onions or Parsley (for garnish) | As Desired |
Follow these tips to make a creamy potato soup that will please your taste buds. It’s a comforting, homemade meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Toppings to Elevate Your Soup
Add a variety of toppings to make your loaded baked potato soup even better. These toppings not only look great but also make the soup taste amazing.
Classic Toppings to Consider
Begin with the basics: shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream, and some chopped chives. These toppings are loved for a reason. They match the soup’s rich, creamy taste perfectly.
Creative Garnishing Ideas
- Celery leaves: These green, leafy tops hold great flavor and add a refreshing crunch to the soup.
- Crispy fried onions: For a delightful textural contrast, top your soup with a handful of crispy fried onions.
- Roasted garlic: Whole roasted garlic cloves lend a mellow, sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the potato soup.
- Scallions: Thinly sliced scallions or green onions add a touch of brightness and mild onion flavor.
These toppings not only make your loaded baked potato soup look good. They also make it taste even better, creating a truly indulgent experience.
Serving Suggestions
Make your comfort food experience better with Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings. Try crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, tangy sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. This recipe makes 6-8 servings, great for family dinners or cozy nights with friends.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
For a full meal, pair the soup with these options:
- Warm, crusty French bread or brioche rolls for dipping
- A fresh, crisp side salad with your favorite dressing
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic comfort food duo
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or pan-seared shrimp for a heartier meal
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To enjoy your Loaded Baked Potato Soup longer, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring often. You might need to add a bit of milk or broth to get the right consistency. With a little care, you can enjoy this easy soup recipe for days.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a true delight, perfect for sharing with friends and family on those chilly winter days. Its thick, creamy texture and hearty flavors make it a comforting dish that’s sure to warm your heart. Whether you’re serving it as the main course or as a side, this winter warmer is guaranteed to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Sharing with Friends and Family
The best part about this hearty soup is that it’s easily scalable, allowing you to whip up a batch large enough to feed a crowd. Consider doubling or even tripling the recipe to ensure there’s enough to go around. Your loved ones will surely appreciate the effort and savor every spoonful of this indulgent delight.
A Dish That Warms the Heart
As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, a steaming bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect way to cozy up and satisfy your cravings. Its comforting flavors and velvety texture will leave you feeling nourished and content, making it a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite for years to come.