As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a little crisp, I find myself craving something warm and comforting. That’s where my easy loaded baked potato soup comes in! This creamy delight is not just a quick solution for a busy day; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can whip up a rich and hearty potato soup that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- It’s a quick baked potato soup that comes together in just 30 minutes.
- This creamy loaded potato soup is rich and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
- One-pot baked potato soup means less cleanup, making it ideal for busy moms.
- Customize it with your favorite toppings for a fun family dinner.
- It’s a comforting soup with toppings that everyone will love!
Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and comforting loaded baked potato soup that is perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 6 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 large Russet potatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese or more to taste
- Chopped scallions to taste
- 3/4 cup sour cream or more to taste
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the flour over the potatoes and stir to coat.
- Gradually add the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and chopped scallions.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated.
- Feel free to add other toppings like additional cheese or crispy onions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this cozy fall soup recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bacon: Six strips add a smoky flavor and crunch. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Onion: A half medium onion, chopped, brings sweetness and depth to the soup. Yellow or white onions work best.
- Russet Potatoes: Four large potatoes, diced, are the star of this dish. They create that creamy texture we all love.
- Flour: A quarter cup helps thicken the soup. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Whole Milk: Four cups provide creaminess. You can use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative if needed.
- Chicken Broth: One cup adds richness. Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian option.
- Garlic: One clove, minced, enhances the flavor profile. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
- Cheddar Cheese: Three-quarters of a cup, grated, gives that cheesy goodness. Feel free to add more for extra flavor!
- Scallions: Chopped scallions add a fresh, oniony bite. You can also use chives for a milder taste.
- Sour Cream: Three-quarters of a cup adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, these staples enhance all the flavors in your soup.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this easy loaded baked potato soup. Each step is simple, and I promise it will be worth the effort. Let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Let it sizzle until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The drippings left in the pot are pure gold! They add a smoky flavor to your soup that you won’t want to miss. Once crispy, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base for your creamy loaded potato soup. The sweetness of the onion will balance the richness of the bacon and potatoes beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes
Next, add the diced Russet potatoes to the pot. Stir them around for a couple of minutes. This brief cooking time helps to enhance their flavor before we thicken the soup. Plus, it gets them ready to soak up all that deliciousness coming their way!
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Now, sprinkle the flour over the potatoes and stir to coat them evenly. This will help thicken your soup later. Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. You’ll notice the mixture starting to thicken, creating that rich and hearty potato soup texture we all crave.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Time to add the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This is when the magic happens! The potatoes will become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Sour Cream
Once the potatoes are tender, it’s time to stir in the grated cheddar cheese and sour cream. This is where your soup transforms into a creamy loaded potato chowder! Mix until everything is melted and well combined. The cheese adds that cheesy potato soup goodness we all love.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls while it’s hot. Top each serving with crumbled bacon and chopped scallions for that extra crunch and flavor. This comforting soup with toppings is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Enjoy every spoonful!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer after adding the cheese and sour cream.
- Don’t skip the bacon drippings; they add incredible flavor to your easy loaded baked potato soup.
- Experiment with toppings like crispy onions or extra cheese for a fun twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for easy reheating!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A Dutch oven works great, but any heavy-bottomed pot will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot.
- Measuring cups: Essential for accurate ingredient portions.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping your veggies and bacon.
- Soup ladle: Makes serving your creamy loaded potato soup a breeze!
Variations To Try
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist on your creamy loaded potato soup.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Loaded with Veggies: Toss in some broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your easy loaded baked potato soup with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- A glass of chilled white wine complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with extra cheese and fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
FAQs about Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Can I make this easy loaded baked potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This creamy loaded potato soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this a gluten-free soup. Just substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Your rich and hearty potato soup will still be delicious!
What toppings can I add to my loaded baked potato soup?
The options are endless! You can add crumbled bacon, extra cheese, chopped scallions, or even crispy onions. Each topping adds a unique twist to your comforting soup with toppings.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While I recommend enjoying this soup fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to leave out the sour cream and cheese before freezing. Add them back in when reheating for the best flavor!
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you love a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This will give your easy loaded baked potato soup a delightful spicy twist!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a bowl of easy loaded baked potato soup. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly evening. The creamy texture, combined with the smoky bacon and rich cheese, creates a symphony of flavors that warms the heart. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this soup brings joy and satisfaction. Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet special enough to impress. So grab your spoon and dive into this cozy fall soup recipe—you deserve every delicious bite!