Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect dish for cold nights. Rich and creamy, it's loaded with all your favorite toppings, making it a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, velvety texture that soothes the soul
- Packed with flavor from crispy bacon and sharp cheddar
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Wholesome Comfort Food
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with the goodness of baked potatoes. This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up, this soup is designed to warm your heart and nourish your body.
The creamy texture of this soup is achieved through a harmonious blend of heavy cream and melted cheddar cheese, creating a rich, velvety experience that soothes the soul. Each spoonful is a delightful combination of flavors, especially with the addition of crispy bacon and fresh green onions, making it a dish that feels indulgent yet homey.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is its versatility. While the base recipe is a classic, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream or adding extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Feel free to experiment with different toppings as well. While crispy bacon and cheddar are traditional favorites, you could also try adding diced jalapeños for a kick, or swapping out the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor boost. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your kitchen for years to come.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This soup is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy a comforting meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
When meal prepping, consider portioning the soup into individual servings. This way, you can grab a bowl whenever you need a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few toppings added, you can transform the same dish into a variety of meals throughout the week, keeping your dining experience exciting.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
Gather all your ingredients to make the preparation easier!
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the diced potatoes.
Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through until the cheese is melted.
Serve and Top
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, additional cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting loaded baked potato soup!
Serving Suggestions
This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. The bread can be used to soak up every last drop of the creamy soup, while a crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic, satisfying combination.
If you're hosting a gathering, this soup makes for an excellent appetizer. Serve small portions in shot glasses or mini bowls to allow guests to sample the flavors without filling up before the main course. It sets a cozy tone for your event and showcases your culinary skills effortlessly.
Storage Tips
To store your Loaded Baked Potato Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to return it to your desired consistency.
Nutritional Benefits
Loaded Baked Potato Soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber, making them a nourishing base for this soup. When combined with the protein from cheese and bacon, as well as the vitamins in fresh toppings, you have a well-rounded meal.
By incorporating more vegetables into the soup or using low-fat alternatives, you can enhance the health benefits even further. This makes it a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food without sacrificing their health goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze leftover soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version, but it may alter the texture slightly.
→ Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings
- Crispy bacon bits
- Chopped green onions
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Stir in the diced potatoes.
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through until the cheese is melted.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, additional cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g