Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Comforting and Delicious Dish
Introduction
Loaded baked potato soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you’re craving some warm and creamy goodness. This soup is packed with flavor and loaded with all the delicious toppings you would find on a baked potato, making it a satisfying meal in itself.
Ingredients
To make loaded baked potato soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4-5 large russet potatoes
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions, sour cream, and additional shredded cheese for topping
Instructions
1. Start by baking the potatoes in the oven until they are tender. Once they are done, let them cool slightly before peeling and chopping them into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the chopped potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. You can also use a regular blender, but be careful not to overfill it with hot liquid.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the loaded baked potato soup hot, topped with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and additional shredded cheese.
Benefits of Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded baked potato soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The addition of cheese and bacon adds protein and flavor, making this soup a well-balanced meal that will keep you satisfied.
Storage and Reheating
Loaded baked potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat the soup, simply pour it into a pot and heat it over medium heat until it is warmed through. You may need to add a little extra broth or cream to thin it out as it reheats.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of potatoes for this soup?
Yes, you can use any type of potato you prefer, but russet potatoes are traditionally used for loaded baked potato soup because of their starchy texture.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of this soup.
3. Can I freeze loaded baked potato soup?
While you can freeze loaded baked potato soup, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy this soup fresh for the best taste and consistency.
Conclusion
Loaded baked potato soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something warm and creamy or need a hearty meal to satisfy your hunger, this soup has it all. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a batch of loaded baked potato soup in no time. So why not give it a try and enjoy the flavors of a loaded baked potato in soup form?
Loaded Baked Potato Soup