Introduction to Loaded Baked Potato Soup
The Comfort of Homemade Soups
There's nothing quite like the warmth of a bowl of homemade soup, especially as the seasons change. Loaded baked potato soup embodies that cozy feeling we all crave. This delightful dish combines all the comforts of a baked potato—creamy, hearty, and flavorful—into a soup that's quick and easy to prepare. In under 30 minutes, you can bring a rich and satisfying meal to your table.
Imagine coming home after a long day, the smell of freshly cooked turkey bacon wafting through your kitchen as you add a splash of creamy goodness with half-and-half and cheddar cheese. According to experts, a wholesome bowl of soup can provide essential nutrients and emotional comfort, making it a fantastic choice for both your body and soul. Whether it's for a casual dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this loaded baked potato soup is sure to impress.
Plus, it’s easily customizable! Feel free to serve it with crusty bread or your favorite toppings. If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of garlic salt or fresh herbs. Dive into this recipe, and you might discover your new favorite comfort food!
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
When you're ready to whip up a comforting bowl of loaded baked potato soup, having the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s a delightful list that guarantees creamy goodness and a flavor-packed experience.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Goodness
- Potatoes: 4 scrubbed potatoes are the star of this soup, providing that classic, hearty flavor.
- Turkey Bacon: 8 slices introduce a savory, smoky touch that elevates the taste without the excess fat.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter create a rich, creamy base, essential for that velvety texture.
- Garlic & Onion: 2 minced garlic cloves and ¼ cup of yellow onion add aromatic flavors, enhancing the overall depth of the soup.
- Flour: ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour is a key thickener that lends the soup its creamy consistency. Find a good quality flour here.
- Milk & Half-and-Half: For the ultimate creaminess, use 2 cups of low-fat milk and 1 cup of half-and-half.
- Chicken Stock: 2 cups provide robust flavor, but always adjust based on your dietary preferences.
- Cheddar Cheese: A mix of mild and sharp varieties (1 cup each) gives it that irresistible cheesy goodness.
- Sour Cream: A full cup adds a tangy richness, perfect for balancing the flavors.
Now that you have a solid grasp on the essentials, you’re just a step away from creating your savory bowl of loaded baked potato soup!
Step-by-step preparation of Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Creating a delicious pot of loaded baked potato soup is not only satisfying but also surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a comforting bowl that your friends and family will love.
Preparing the potatoes
Start by giving your potatoes a good scrub to remove any dirt. You can then pierce them multiple times with a fork. If you're pressed for time, pop them in the microwave for about 12 to 15 minutes until they're tender. Alternatively, for a more traditional approach, consider baking them at 350°F for 45 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool a bit before halving and removing the skins. Cut the potatoes into chunks – feel free to leave some larger pieces for texture. The goal here is to balance the creamy base with hearty potato chunks.
Cooking the turkey bacon
Next, let’s add some smoky flavor to our soup. In a medium skillet, cook your turkey bacon over medium-high heat until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the crispy strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, keeping about a tablespoon of the drippings in the skillet. Once cooled, crumble the turkey bacon into small pieces. Not only does this provide an irresistible crunch, but it also enhances the overall taste of your loaded baked potato soup.
Sautéing the aromatics
Now, it's time to layer in some flavors! In a large pot, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add the reserved turkey bacon fat, then toss in your minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is tender and translucent. This step is crucial; the aroma is simply irresistible! It’s like a warm hug in the kitchen, layered with rich flavors.
Creating the creamy base
Once your aromatics are ready, whisk in ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw taste. Gradually pour in 2 cups of low-fat milk and 1 cup of half-and-half, stirring continuously until smooth. Now, add 2 cups of chicken stock and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Finally, season with 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Allow the mixture to thicken for about 5-7 minutes. This creamy base is what sets the stage for your loaded baked potato soup, so take your time here!
Incorporating the potatoes and garnishes
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in your crumbled turkey bacon, remaining cheeses, and 1 cup of sour cream. Fold in the potato chunks, breaking some apart for a delightful mix of textures. When serving, don’t forget the garnishes! Top your bowls with reserved bacon, additional cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor. Each spoonful will be rich, creamy, and packed with comforting goodness – the perfect dish for chilly days or cozy nights. Enjoy!
Variations on Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Vegan Loaded Baked Potato Soup
For a delicious twist, try making a vegan loaded baked potato soup! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the milk and half-and-half with almond milk or coconut cream. You can use nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Add in your favorite veggies like spinach or kale for extra nutrition, and top with crispy coconut bacon or roasted chickpeas for that lovely crunch.
Loaded Baked Sweet Potato Soup
If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, consider loaded baked sweet potato soup. Sweet potatoes not only offer a natural sweetness but are also packed with vitamins. The preparation is quite similar to the traditional version—just swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes! Blend the soup for a creamy texture and garnish with sliced green onions, a dollop of coconut sour cream, and toasted nuts for added flavor and crunch.
These variations can bring a fun, healthier twist to your classic loaded baked potato soup, keeping your meals exciting all year long!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Tips for Perfecting the Soup Texture
To achieve the ideal creamy texture for your loaded baked potato soup, consider these handy tips:
- Whisking Wisely: When you whisk in the milk and half-and-half, do it slowly to prevent lumps. Maintaining a smooth texture is key!
- Potato Preparation: For a chunkier style, leave the potato pieces larger. If you prefer a smoother soup, mash them slightly as you add them in.
- Blend for Creaminess: If you love a velvety soup, use an immersion blender for a few pulses before adding the potatoes.
- Thickening Agents: If your soup needs a little extra body, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the pot.
These simple adjustments will elevate your loaded baked potato soup, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t rush the simmering process—allow those flavors to meld beautifully! For more tips on creating delicious soups, check out The Kitchn.
Serving Suggestions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
When serving loaded baked potato soup, think of it as a canvas that welcomes a variety of toppings. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your bowl:
-
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Add chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
-
Creamy Extras: A dollop of sour cream adds richness, while Greek yogurt can offer a lighter twist.
-
Cheese, Please: Sprinkle a mix of mild and sharp cheddar on top for an extra cheesy experience.
-
Turkey Bacon Crumbles: Garnish with crumbled turkey bacon for that savory crunch.
-
Vegetable Medley: Consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve it with warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal! Discover more about soup pairings on Serious Eats.
Time Breakdown for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Creating a delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup doesn’t take up too much of your time! Here’s a quick glimpse at how long you’ll spend preparing and cooking this comforting dish.
Preparation Time
Get your ingredients ready in about 10 minutes. This includes scrubbing the potatoes, chopping onions, and crumbling the turkey bacon.
Cooking Time
Enjoy the rich flavors simmering together for 25 minutes. This part of the process is crucial for melding the ingredients into that creamy goodness you crave.
Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup ready to serve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, wouldn’t you agree?
Feeling inspired already? Check out this guide on how to make the perfect baked potato for even more deliciousness!
Nutritional Facts for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
When you’re savoring a bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup, it’s essential to know what’s in it. This hearty soup packs a punch in flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional content:
Calories
Each serving of this creamy delight has about 502 calories, making it a filling option for lunch or dinner.
Protein
You'll get approximately 18 grams of protein per bowl, thanks to the addition of turkey bacon, cheese, and sour cream, helping you feel satisfied.
Sodium
Keep an eye on sodium levels, which come in at around 962 mg per serving. If you’re watching your intake, consider adjusting the salt when cooking.
With this brief nutritional overview, you can enjoy your Loaded Baked Potato Soup guilt-free! For more insights on balanced eating, check out the resources at NutritionData or USDA FoodData.
FAQs about Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Loaded baked potato soup is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to two days in advance. Just let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of milk if you want to restore its creamy texture.
How do I store leftover soup?
Storing leftovers is simple! Pour any remaining soup into an airtight container and refrigerate it. It should be good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it — just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion!
What can I use instead of chicken stock?
If you're looking for alternatives to chicken stock, consider vegetable broth or even homemade vegetable stock for a lighter option. If you want a creative twist, try using bone broth, which can add a deeper flavor profile to your delicious loaded baked potato soup!
Conclusion on Loaded Baked Potato Soup
In wrapping up this delightful recipe for loaded baked potato soup, it’s clear that comfort food doesn’t get any better than this! With just 35 minutes from prep to table, this creamy dish is perfect for weekends or weeknight dinners. Enjoy every hearty spoonful, topped just the way you like it. Happy cooking!
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Equipment
- Microwave
- skillet
- large pot
- paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 pieces potatoes, scrubbed
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup yellow onion
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour https://amzn.to/3mHqvKC
- 2 cups low fat milk
- 1 cup half and half
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste, https://amzn.to/3jUvOpt
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt plus more to taste, https://amzn.to/41qrwfW
- ½ teaspoon black pepper https://amzn.to/3LeXH7T
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Pierce the potatoes multiple times with a fork, then microwave them for 12 to 15 minutes, or until tender. Carefully halve the potatoes and let cool. Once cool enough to handle, remove the skins, and cut into chunks.
- Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Reserve up to 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat from the pan, discarding the rest. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the reserved bacon fat, garlic and onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the onion is tender. Slowly whisk the flour into the pan and stir for 1 to 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk and half-and-half. Keep whisking until smooth. Gradually add the chicken stock. Bring to a light simmer and whisk in the kosher salt, garlic salt and pepper. Keep at a light simmer until the mixture has thickened slightly, 5 to 7 minutes.
- If you'd like to use cheeses and bacon as a garnish, reserve ¼ cup of each. Stir in the remaining cheeses, remaining bacon, and the sour cream. Remove the pot from the heat. Scoop potato chunks into the pan, breaking them into small pieces or leaving them chunky, depending on your preference. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes, like cheese, bacon and chives.
Leave a Reply