Loaded Baked Potato Soup Savory and Comforting Delight

If you crave comfort food that warms your soul, Loaded Baked Potato Soup is it! This savory delight combines rich flavors with hearty ingredients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. I’ll guide you through how to create this cozy soup, share helpful tips, and offer tasty variations. Get ready to savor each spoonful of creamy goodness! Let's dive in and make some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus additional for garnish)

- 4 slices of crispy turkey bacon, crumbled

- 1 cup sour cream

- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Key Ingredients and Substitutes

The russet potatoes are key to this soup's texture. They offer a fluffy and creamy base. If you want a lighter option, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes. Onions and garlic add strong flavor. You can swap yellow onions for shallots if you prefer a milder taste.

Heavy cream gives the soup its rich creaminess. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. If you're dairy-free, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream. The cheddar cheese makes it cheesy and comforting. You can use a dairy-free cheese if needed.

Crispy turkey bacon adds a nice crunch. You may skip this for a vegetarian soup or use regular bacon for a different taste. Green onions and parsley bring freshness and color to your bowl.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Each serving of this loaded baked potato soup is a comforting delight. It contains about:

- Calories: 450

- Protein: 12g

- Carbohydrates: 40g

- Fat: 30g

- Fiber: 4g

This soup is filling and perfect for a cozy meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This size helps them cook evenly. Next, finely chop the medium onion. The smaller the pieces, the better they will blend into the soup. Now, mince the garlic cloves. You should have about three cloves. Gather all these ingredients before you start cooking.

Cooking the Soup

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about five minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. After that, stir in the minced garlic for one more minute. Be careful not to burn it. Now, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring the pot to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender. When they are done, take a potato masher and mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will help thicken the soup while keeping some chunks for texture.

Final Steps for Serving

Lower the heat again and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Cook gently for about five minutes until the cheese melts. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Remove the pot from heat and mix in 1 cup of sour cream. This makes the soup rich and creamy. Now, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each bowl with crumbled crispy turkey bacon, extra cheese, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. This makes for a beautiful and tasty presentation. Enjoy your Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture in your Loaded Baked Potato Soup, mash some potatoes but leave some chunks. This mix gives you a thick and hearty feel. Use a potato masher when the potatoes are soft. Don't mash them all; keep some pieces for bites. This blend creates a nice contrast in your soup. Also, use a good quality vegetable broth. It adds depth and flavor to your dish.

Recommended Seasoning Enhancements

Seasoning can elevate your soup’s taste. Start with smoked paprika for a warm, smoky flavor. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to balance the taste. If you want a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like parsley also brighten the flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings as you cook. Always taste your soup before serving to ensure it’s just right.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This soup is filling on its own, but you can make it a full meal. Serve it with a simple green salad for a fresh touch. Crusty bread or warm rolls pair well too. For a fun twist, add toppings like avocado or olives. You can also serve it with a side of grilled chicken or vegetables for added protein. Don't forget to garnish with extra cheese, bacon, and green onions to make it look great!

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Loaded Baked Potato Soup

You can easily make a vegetarian or vegan version of this soup. Start by swapping out the heavy cream and sour cream for plant-based alternatives. Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich texture. Replace the turkey bacon with crispy tofu or smoked tempeh for a savory touch. Always check that your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly. This way, everyone can enjoy a bowl of comfort!

Cheese Variations and Additions

Cheese lovers can get creative with this soup. Instead of sharp cheddar, try gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. You can also mix different cheeses for a unique taste. If you want to cut calories, use reduced-fat cheese. Just remember, the more cheese you add, the creamier your soup will be.

Different Toppings and Garnishes

Toppings can take your soup to the next level. Besides turkey bacon and green onions, consider adding crispy shallots or diced tomatoes. You might also enjoy a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can add brightness. Let your taste buds guide you in finding the best combo!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store your Loaded Baked Potato Soup, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This soup will last for about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure you label the container with the date you made it. This helps you keep track of freshness.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to keep the soup longer, you can freeze it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the soup, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, pour the soup into a pot. Heat it on low, stirring occasionally. This helps prevent it from sticking. If you choose the microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between. This ensures it warms evenly. Always check that it is hot throughout before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Loaded Baked Potato Soup in a slow cooker. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil on the stove. Then, add the sautéed veggies to your slow cooker. Next, toss in the diced potatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. When the potatoes are soft, mash some for texture. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese just before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you need a substitute for heavy cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk or milk and butter. To make one cup of heavy cream, mix ¾ cup of milk with ¼ cup of melted butter. This will give you a rich texture. You can also try cashew cream for a dairy-free option. Just blend soaked cashews with a little water until smooth.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make Loaded Baked Potato Soup gluten-free, ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free. Most brands are, but always check the label. Avoid adding any gluten-containing thickeners. The potatoes and other ingredients are already gluten-free, so you are mostly set. Enjoy this comforting bowl without worry!

This blog post showed you how to make a loaded baked potato soup. We discussed key ingredients, steps for cooking, and helpful tips for best results. You learned about variations, storage methods, and answers to common questions. This soup is not just tasty; it can fit many diets. Explore your options and have fun while cooking. Enjoy sharing this warm dish with family and friends. Cook with care, and you’ll create something special every time.