Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup for Cozy Nights 🥔🧀✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and indulgent soup to soothe your soul on chilly evenings, look no further than loaded baked potato soup. This comforting dish combines the creamy texture of a creamy potato soup with all the delicious toppings you’d find on a loaded baked potato. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this baked potato stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

2. Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, additional cheese, cracked black pepper

3. How to Make Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into uniform cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly, giving you a smooth, creamy soup base.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent—about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender—about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Puree the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend until creamy. Return to the pot.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra creamy texture, add a dollop of sour cream.

Step 6: Prepare Toppings

Meanwhile, cook bacon until crispy, then crumble. Chop green onions and prepare any additional toppings you’d like to include.

Step 7: Serve the Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top generously with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and extra cheese if desired. Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic butter bread rolls for an even more satisfying meal.

4. Tips for the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Use russet potatoes for the best starchy, fluffy texture.
• Adjust the cream quantity to reach your preferred consistency — for thicker soup, add less cream; for a lighter version, substitute with milk.
• For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.
• Reheat gently to prevent the soup from separating; add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover loaded baked potato soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

6. Serving Suggestions

This creamy potato soup pairs beautifully with a side of garlic butter bread rolls. For a fresh touch, toss a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. Enjoy your cozy night with this indulgent and satisfying meal.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this loaded baked potato soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk, and use vegan cheese. Omit bacon or replace it with plant-based bacon alternatives for a vegan version.

How long does it take to prepare the loaded baked potato soup?

The entire process takes approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep, cooking, and blending. This makes it an ideal quick comfort food on busy weeknights.

Can I freeze leftover loaded potato chowder?

Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

8. Recommended Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easier

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy bacon without the mess, making your topping prep more efficient.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: A versatile cookware set that can handle all your soup-making needs.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Bake or crisp toppings easily for added flavor and texture.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange: Handy for mixing or preparing toppings efficiently.

9. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of loaded baked potato soup on a cold night. Its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful toppings make it a comforting favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this dish offers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Try making this hearty baked potato stew today, and enjoy a cozy, delicious night in!

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