Introduction: Get ready to indulge in a cozy bowl of comfort with this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe, perfect for chilly nights when you need something hearty and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
2. Saute onions and garlic in the same pot until fragrant. Add chopped potatoes and chicken broth. Simmer until potatoes are tender.
3. Mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher to thicken the soup.
4. Stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and chopped chives.
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 350 per serving
– Total Fat: 18g
– Saturated Fat: 9g
– Cholesterol: 45mg
– Sodium: 600mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 30g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Protein: 15g
Popular Questions:
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
– Yes, you can substitute cheddar with your preferred cheese for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
– Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon for a vegetarian version.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
– Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just add the toppings right before serving.
4. How can I make this soup creamier?
– You can add more milk or cream to the soup for a creamier texture.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
– Yes, you can freeze this soup without the toppings. Thaw and reheat before adding the toppings.
Helpful Tips:
1. For extra flavor, roast the potatoes before adding them to the soup.
2. Add a dollop of sour cream on top before serving for added creaminess.
3. Use smoked cheddar for a smoky flavor in the soup.
4. Garnish with additional toppings like green onions or jalapenos for a kick of flavor.
5. Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Expert Secrets:
1. Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor in the soup.
2. Cook the onions and garlic until soft for a milder flavor in the soup.
3. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
4. Stir the soup constantly while adding the cheese to prevent clumping.
5. Use a hand blender for a smoother consistency in the soup.
