Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup half and half
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups low fat milk
- 4 large russet potatoes scrubbed
- 8 bacon slices
- 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt plus more to taste
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
- minced fresh chives for garnish
- 4 tbsp unsalted challenge butter
- Carbohydrate 399.899867470923 g
- Cholesterol 674.495485126705 mg
- Fat 268.788373593325 g
- Fiber 22.1057493467787 g
- Protein 168.700860274618 g
- Saturated Fat 134.25983235139 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (4080g)
- Sodium 7603.16066101501 mg
- Sugar 377.794118124144 g
- Trans Fat 20.5294545909567 g
- Calories 4664 calories
Step-by-step
- 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 1/4 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.
My Comfort Food Go-To: Loaded Baked Potato Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying meal can feel like a Herculean task. My days are a whirlwind of meetings, school runs, and trying to squeeze in a workout (sometimes successfully!). Dinner time often feels like the only moment of peace, a chance to unwind and connect with my family. That’s why I’ve developed a love for recipes that are both flavorful and surprisingly quick to make. And nothing hits the spot quite like my Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It's hearty, creamy, and so satisfying – the perfect antidote to a long day.
This soup isn't just a quick meal; it's a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. The creamy texture, the salty crunch of bacon, and the sharp bite of cheddar – each element plays its part in creating a symphony of flavors that's both comforting and exciting. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel instantly nourished and happy. I love that it’s flexible too. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh chives, other times I go all out with extra bacon. It adapts perfectly to whatever mood I’m in, or whatever ingredients I happen to have on hand. The beauty lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are common pantry staples, and the preparation is so straightforward, even on my busiest days, I can whip it up without a fuss.
The smell of the soup simmering on the stove is an immediate stress reliever. It fills my kitchen with a warmth that permeates the entire house, creating a welcoming ambiance for my family. My kids adore it, and often ask for seconds – a testament to its irresistible appeal. But it's not just for family dinners; this soup is also a perfect choice for a cozy night in, or even a casual get-together with friends. It's adaptable enough to serve alongside a simple salad or crusty bread, making it a complete and balanced meal suitable for any occasion. Seriously, give this recipe a try. It’s the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Beyond the Recipe: The Heart of Home Cooking
For me, cooking isn't just about nourishment; it's about creating memories. It’s about gathering my family around the table, sharing stories, and connecting over a shared meal. This Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe represents more than just a delicious dish; it embodies the heart of home cooking. It's about making time for the things that truly matter—taking a moment to slow down, appreciate the simple joys, and nourish my body and soul. The process itself is therapeutic – the chopping, the stirring, the simmering – it’s all a form of mindful meditation that calms me and prepares me for whatever the day might bring.
The best part? This isn't just another recipe; it's a blueprint for connection. I've found that sharing meals together as a family fosters a deeper bond, creating lasting memories and strengthening relationships. It’s in these moments, surrounded by the aroma of delicious food and the laughter of loved ones, that I truly feel at home. And as my kids grow older, I hope that this simple soup will become a cherished part of our family tradition – a reminder of simpler times, warm hearts, and full bellies.
So go ahead, try this recipe. Let the comforting aroma and irresistible taste transport you to a place of warmth and togetherness. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a taste of home.
