There’s something so comforting about a bowl of baked potato soup loaded with all your favorite toppings. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! This creamy goodness is not just a soup; it’s a meal that wraps you in its cozy embrace. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and their eyes lit up in anticipation. What makes this recipe stand out is the richness of the flavors combined with the delightful texture of perfectly cubed baked potatoes. Trust me, once you try this loaded baked potato soup, it’ll become a go-to dish for family dinners or any gathering. It’s quick to whip up, too, making it the perfect weeknight comfort food that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup Loaded
To make this delightful baked potato soup loaded, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy, hearty meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 large potatoes – baked and cubed. I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture.
- 1 cup onion – chopped. This adds a nice sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth – the base of the soup. You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese – shredded. This is for that gooey, cheesy goodness on top!
- 1/2 cup sour cream – for creaminess and a tangy kick.
- 1/4 cup green onions – sliced. These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color to your soup.
Don’t forget, you can always sprinkle some bacon bits on top for an extra layer of flavor if you like!
How to Prepare Baked Potato Soup Loaded
Making this baked potato soup loaded with toppings is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a comforting bowl of goodness that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
First, grab your large pot and heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, toss in your chopped onions. You’ll want to sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden. Trust me, the aroma of sautéing onions is heavenly! You’re looking for them to soften up and become a bit sweet. Stir them occasionally to prevent them from sticking or burning. When they’re ready, they should be soft and fragrant!
Step 2: Combine Potatoes and Broth
Next up, it’s time to add the star of the show—your baked and cubed potatoes! Gently fold them into the pot with the sautéed onions. Now, pour in the chicken broth, covering all the ingredients. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for about 20 minutes. This simmering time is crucial because it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep an eye on it, and give it a stir now and then!
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Once your soup has simmered to perfection, it’s blending time! If you have an immersion blender, you can simply puree it right in the pot. If you’re using a standard blender, carefully ladle the soup into the blender in batches. Be cautious—hot liquids can splatter! I recommend letting the soup cool for a few minutes before blending, and don’t forget to remove the center cap of the lid to allow steam to escape. Blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy texture that makes your mouth water!
Step 4: Serve with Toppings
Now, it’s time for the fun part—serving! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each one generously with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. You can even add bacon bits if you’re feeling indulgent. Arrange the toppings artfully on top; it makes for a beautiful presentation and enhances the flavors. Dive in while it’s hot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour!
- Creamy Texture: The blending process creates a velvety smooth soup that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
- Loaded with Flavor: Each bowl is packed with the rich taste of baked potatoes, savory chicken broth, and delicious toppings.
- Customizable Toppings: You can top your soup with whatever you love—cheese, sour cream, green onions, or even crispy bacon bits for an extra treat!
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for cozy dinners or when you need a little comfort.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy, making it great for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
- Leftover Friendly: This soup stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day!
Tips for Success with Baked Potato Soup Loaded
To ensure your baked potato soup loaded turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve gathered over the years:
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because they become fluffy and creamy when baked. You can also use Yukon Gold for a slightly buttery flavor.
- Prep ahead: If you’re short on time, bake the potatoes in advance. You can even do this the night before. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to make the soup!
- Blending safely: If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splattering. Always remove the center cap of the lid and cover with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use plant-based sour cream or omit it altogether for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Season to taste: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! You might want to add a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance the flavors. Each broth can vary in saltiness.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be ready to whip up a delicious batch of baked potato soup loaded with all your favorite toppings!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying your baked potato soup loaded, it’s always good to know what you’re putting in your body! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose, so these figures are just estimates. Typically, a serving of this creamy soup contains about 350 calories, with 15 grams of fat and 10 grams of protein. You’ll also find around 45 grams of carbohydrates, making it a hearty meal. Plus, each bowl provides a good amount of potassium and fiber, thanks to the potatoes. Remember, the toppings you choose can add extra calories, so feel free to adjust based on your preferences. Enjoy this comforting dish while being mindful of your nutritional goals!
FAQ Section
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make your baked potato soup loaded vegetarian, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. This still gives you that delicious base flavor without the meat. You can also use plant-based sour cream or omit it altogether for a lighter version. Trust me, it’ll still be rich and creamy, and just as comforting!
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave a bit of space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave!
What toppings can I use?
The beauty of baked potato soup loaded is that you can get creative with the toppings! Besides the classic cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions, you can add crispy bacon bits for that salty crunch or even sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Chopped chives or fresh herbs like parsley can brighten it up, and a drizzle of hot sauce can add a spicy kick if you’re feeling adventurous. The options are endless, so feel free to mix and match based on what you love!
Equipment Needed for Baked Potato Soup Loaded
To make your baked potato soup loaded, you’ll need a couple of essential kitchen tools that will help you whip up this comforting dish effortlessly. Here’s what I recommend having on hand:
- Large Pot: A sturdy large pot is crucial for sautéing your onions and simmering the soup. It needs to be big enough to hold all the ingredients without overflowing.
- Blender: You’ll need a blender to achieve that smooth, creamy texture. An immersion blender works great for blending right in the pot, but a standard blender will also do the trick—just be careful with hot liquids!
Having these two pieces of equipment ready makes the cooking process a breeze, letting you focus on creating a delicious bowl of soup that everyone will love!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Potato Soup Loaded
When it comes to enjoying your baked potato soup loaded, pairing it with the right sides or beverages can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some delicious ideas to consider:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. The combination of textures is simply divine!
- Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. It’s a great way to balance the meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a classic twist, serve your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese and crispy bread complement the soup beautifully!
- Pickles or Olives: A small bowl of pickles or olives on the side can add a tangy bite that cuts through the creaminess of the soup, providing a delightful contrast.
- Light Beer or Sparkling Water: If you enjoy a drink with your meal, a light beer or refreshing sparkling water with a slice of lemon can cleanse your palate and enhance the dining experience.
These pairings not only complement the flavors of your baked potato soup loaded but also make for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Personal Touch
Every time I make this baked potato soup loaded, I’m reminded of chilly winter nights spent at my grandmother’s house. She had this cozy kitchen filled with the warmth of her love and the smell of her cooking. I can still picture her stirring a big pot of soup on the stove, her laughter mixing with the bubbling sounds. It was a family tradition to gather around the table, each of us with a bowl in hand, sharing stories and enjoying the comfort of a hearty meal. I remember the delight on my siblings’ faces as they piled on the toppings—extra cheese and a generous dollop of sour cream were always a must! Now, I carry on that tradition with my kids, and I can see the same joy in their eyes. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a way to create memories and share love with those I hold dear.
Baked Potato Soup Loaded
Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large Potatoes baked and cubed
- 1 cup Onion chopped
- 4 cups Chicken Broth
For the Toppings
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 cup Green Onions sliced
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onions until translucent.
- Add the potatoes and chicken broth. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth, then return to the pot and heat through.
- Serve hot with toppings of cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Notes
If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to explore more of our easy dinner favorites! Check out our collection of easy casserole recipes for more one-pan wonders, browse these easy chicken breast recipes that transform plain chicken into something amazing, or try our crockpot chicken soup recipes for ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it again later, and follow us on Pinterest for hundreds more delicious recipes and meal ideas!