Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate dish for chilly evenings and cozy gatherings. This rich, creamy soup brings together the hearty flavors of russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled turkey bacon, making it a delightful meal any time of the year. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this soup stands out with its comforting texture and vibrant taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream, cheese, and spices creates a deliciously creamy soup that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side. It pairs well with salads or crusty bread.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings like extra cheese, herbs, or crunchy vegetables.
• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with nutrition, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup successfully, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender (or stand blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly, allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Immersion blender: Provides convenience in blending directly in the pot without transferring hot soup to another container.
• Cutting board & Knife: Vital for safely preparing your vegetables before cooking.

Ingredients

Rich, creamy soup filled with potatoes, cheddar cheese, turkey bacon, and green onions—perfect for a cozy evening meal.

For the Soup Base

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

For Toppings

• 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Additional Seasonings

• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

How to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook Potatoes

Add diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth or slightly chunky texture as preferred. Alternatively, carefully transfer soup in batches to a stand blender and blend until smooth.

Step 4: Add Creamy Ingredients

Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue cooking over low heat until cheese fully melts and soup is heated through—about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle soup into serving bowls. Top each portion with crumbled turkey bacon, additional shredded cheese, and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your comforting bowl of loaded baked potato soup!

How to Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a delightful experience that allows you to customize each bowl to your liking. Here are some creative ways to enhance your soup presentation and flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Chives: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Dill: A few sprigs of dill can add a unique flavor profile that complements the richness of the soup.

Add Extra Crunch

• Croutons: Top your soup with crispy croutons for added texture and flavor. Consider using seasoned croutons for an extra kick.
• Toasted Seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower seeds can provide a delightful crunch and nutritional boost.

Serve with Bread

• Crusty Bread Rolls: Pair your soup with warm, crusty bread rolls for dipping. This adds heartiness to the meal.
• Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread is perfect for those who love bold flavors and want to soak up the creamy soup.

Include Protein Toppings

• Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken strips on top for a protein boost, making the meal more filling.
• Turkey Meatballs: Small turkey meatballs can be a fun and hearty addition, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

How to Perfect Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfecting your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup can elevate it from good to unforgettable. Here are some essential tips to ensure every bowl is just right.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh potatoes and herbs, as they enhance the overall flavor and texture of the soup.
• Blend Carefully: For the desired consistency, blend the soup just enough to achieve creaminess without losing all texture. Leave some chunks if you prefer.
• Taste As You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking. Taste periodically to find the perfect balance of flavors tailored to your preference.
• Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is classic, try mixing in other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for added depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish perfectly.

1. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and lightness.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a flavorful contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness, making them an appealing side dish.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese and garlic create a comforting companion for dipping into the soup.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the potato soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Moist cornbread muffins are delightful when served warm alongside a bowl of soup, adding sweetness and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be simple, but here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Take a few minutes to cook them until soft before adding other ingredients.
• Not seasoning enough: Underseasoning can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and herbs for a flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Check for fork-tenderness around the 15-minute mark to maintain a good texture.
• Using cold broth: Cold broth can lower the cooking temperature. Always use room temperature or warm broth to ensure even cooking.
• Not blending properly: Blending too much can make the soup overly smooth. Blend to your desired texture—chunky or creamy—and avoid overdoing it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Soup lasts up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it keeps well for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavor profiles.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit Turkey Bacon. You can add more vegetables for added texture.

What should I serve with Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or a simple sandwich for a complete meal.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Add toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado slices for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for chilly evenings and offers great versatility. Customize it with different toppings or ingredients based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of warmth!

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Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up on chilly evenings with our Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup, a rich and creamy delight that’s perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. This hearty soup features tender russet potatoes combined with sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled turkey bacon, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its velvety texture and flavorful seasonings, it promises to be a comforting staple in your home all year round.

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Ingredients

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• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for 5 to 7 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in diced potatoes and broth along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth or your desired consistency.
4. Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook on low heat until the cheese melts—about 5 minutes.
5. Serve topped with crumbled turkey bacon and chopped green onions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 50mg