Description
A creamy and comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup that captures the essence of a loaded baked potato. This quick and easy recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium Potatoes (Microwave or leftover roasted for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil)
- 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots work for a milder flavor)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh cloves recommended)
- 6 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative)
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free flour)
- 1 cup Low-Fat Milk (Unsweetened almond milk works too)
- 1 cup Half and Half (Coconut cream is a dairy-free option)
- 4 cups Chicken Stock (Use vegetable stock for vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt (Season to taste)
- 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese (Add sharp cheddar for depth)
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Vegan cheese for dairy-free)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt for healthier option)
- 1 bunch Fresh Chives (Green onions or parsley for garnish)
Instructions
- Microwave Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes and cook on high for about 10 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt unsalted butter in the same pot, add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until softened.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle in all-purpose flour and stir for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add Dairy & Stock: Gradually whisk in low-fat milk, half and half, and chicken stock, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Potatoes: Dice or smash the microwaved potatoes and stir into the pot, seasoning with salt, garlic salt, and black pepper.
- Melt Cheeses: Stir in mild and sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Finish & Serve: Remove from heat, stir in sour cream, and garnish with freshly chopped chives.
Notes
- For freezing, consider leaving out the sour cream until after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
- Keep some potato skins on for extra flavor and texture.
- If your soup is too thick, add more chicken stock or milk gradually.
- Taste as you go to adjust seasoning, as bacon and cheese add saltiness.
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg