Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect dish for chilly evenings. This creamy soup combines tender potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crumbled turkey bacon for a hearty meal that satisfies. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this soup brings warmth and comfort to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika enhances the taste, creating a comforting bowl of goodness.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust toppings or add vegetables to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy delight packed with flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools needed for making Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This allows you to cook all the ingredients evenly while providing enough space to blend without spills.
• Immersion blender: Perfect for achieving that creamy texture without needing to transfer hot soup to a stand blender.
• Cutting board: A stable surface is essential for safely chopping vegetables.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and easy preparation of your ingredients.

Ingredients

Rich, creamy soup filled with potatoes, cheddar, 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

For Creaminess and Flavor

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

Toppings

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

Seasonings and Cooking Essentials

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

How to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

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. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

Once the 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 Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue cooking over low heat until cheese fully melts and soup is heated through, around 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.

This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup serves six hearty bowls—perfect for family dinners or leftovers!

How to Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy delight pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.

Topping Options

• Extra Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar for an extra cheesy finish.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions lend a nice crunch and brightness.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang to each bowl.
• Crumbled Turkey Bacon: For added texture, top with crispy crumbled Turkey Bacon.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

Accompanying Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Enhance the meal with warm, buttery garlic bread for added flavor.

Salad Pairings

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and rich dressing complement the soup beautifully.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To make your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup truly remarkable, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is as delicious as possible.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh potatoes and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or cream until you reach your desired texture.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
• Blend Carefully: For a creamy texture, blend until smooth, but be cautious not to over-blend if you like some chunks.
• Add Flavor Depth: Incorporating spices like smoked paprika can enhance the overall taste profile significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Pair your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup with these delightful side dishes that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring crunchy romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing adds freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty side that complements the soup’s creaminess.
4. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are great for soaking up broth.
5. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables offer a nutritious balance to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Ignoring potato types: Not all potatoes are created equal. Use russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor in your soup.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the onions too long can lead to a mushy texture. Sauté until soft and translucent, then move on to the next step.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Every broth is different. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
• Neglecting the blending method: Using a stand blender can be messy. An immersion blender helps you achieve your desired soup texture without transferring hot liquid.
• Forgetting toppings: A great soup deserves great toppings! Don’t skip the crumbled Turkey Bacon and chopped green onions; they add flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Simmer over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.

What can I use instead of Turkey Bacon?

You can use cooked chicken or turkey pieces for a similar savory element without using pork products.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make it vegan, omit the cream and cheese, using plant-based alternatives instead, such as coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

What are some good toppings for this soup?

Some delicious toppings include chives, crispy chickpeas, or additional shredded cheese to enhance flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings. This hearty recipe is perfect for chilly evenings and can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. Give it a try; you’ll love how comforting it feels!

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Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy dish for chilly evenings. This creamy, hearty soup combines tender russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings to create a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings. Each bowl is a comforting hug in food form, making it an ideal choice for any night of the week.

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Ingredients

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

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (5-7 minutes), then add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add diced potatoes and broth. Season with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
3. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth or slightly chunky.
4. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese; heat until cheese melts (about 5 minutes). Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot topped with crumbled turkey bacon and chopped green onions.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg