Description
A rich, creamy loaded baked potato soup that combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and classic toppings for a comforting and hearty meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
Flavorings & Toppings
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer Potatoes: Add the peeled and diced potatoes along with the chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes: Using a potato masher or a fork, mash some of the potatoes in the soup to create a thicker texture while leaving some chunks intact for a hearty feel.
- Mix Dairy Ingredients: Stir in the milk (or cream), shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Heat gently to combine without boiling.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with the reserved crispy bacon pieces and garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For an extra creamy soup, blend a portion of the soup before stirring in the dairy ingredients.
- Substitute milk with heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Serve with warm crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
