Rich and Comforting Loaded Potato Soup

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Introduction:

Loaded Potato Soup is a decadent and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of a baked potato—creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese—in a warm and satisfying soup. It’s a great option for a hearty lunch or dinner and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a rich, creamy soup.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

For the Soup:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of smokiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Toppings:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
  • Sour cream (optional)
  • Extra shredded cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Potatoes:

  • In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Base:

  • In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Make the Roux:

  • Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring frequently.

4. Add Liquids:

  • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the mixture starts to thicken.
  • Stir in the milk and heavy cream, then bring the soup back to a simmer.

5. Blend the Soup:

  • Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of it or use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes.

6. Add Potatoes and Season:

  • Return the cooked potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Simmer the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to taste.

7. Serve:

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions or chives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Add extra shredded cheese for a gooey finish.

Tips for Success:

  • Cook the potatoes well: Ensure the potatoes are cooked until tender for the best texture in the soup.
  • Blend to your preference: Adjust the blending step according to whether you like your soup smooth or chunky.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure it’s flavorful.

Recommendations:

Pair this rich and comforting Loaded Potato Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. It’s also perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer for future meals.

Enjoy your cozy and satisfying Loaded Potato Soup!

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