Loaded Baked Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Few things warm the soul and body as effectively as a hearty bowl of soup. When the weather turns cold or when you’re in the mood for some homely comfort food, the loaded baked potato soup stands out as a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that never disappoints. Dive into this recipe that brings the goodness of a loaded baked potato into a bowl.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

  1. 5-6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  2. 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
  3. 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  4. 2 cups heavy cream or whole milk
  5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  8. 1/4 cup unsalted butter

For the Garnish:

  1. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  2. 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives
  3. 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
  4. 1/2 cup sour cream
  5. Additional salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preparation: Start by preparing your ingredients. Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onions, and mince the garlic.
  2. Cooking the Potatoes: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent. Introduce the minced garlic and stir for about a minute. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the butter. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring that the potatoes are submerged. Bring to a boil.
  3. Simmering: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook until they are tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
  4. Blending: With a hand blender or in batches using a countertop blender, puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you like a chunkier soup, you can mash some of the potatoes using a potato masher and leave some bits whole.
  5. Adding Creaminess: Return the pot to the stove on low heat. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly until the soup is smooth and heated through.
  6. Seasoning: Season with salt and pepper, adjusting according to your taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk to reach your preferred consistency.
  7. Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, crispy bacon bits, and a scattering of chopped green onions or chives.

A Few Tips:

  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian substitute.
  • The beauty of this soup lies in its flexibility. You can introduce other ingredients like corn, roasted bell peppers, or even some spicy jalapeños to give it a different spin.
  • Always serve hot and with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for the ultimate comfort meal.

Loaded baked potato soup is more than just a dish; it’s an experience, a hug in a bowl. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a favorite in your repertoire of comfort foods. Enjoy your cooking and savor every spoonful!

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