Name: Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced; 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste

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There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese. Picture this: a velvety blend of flavors, where buttery potatoes meet crispy bacon, and a shower of cheese melts into each spoonful. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening.

Now, let me take you back to my childhood. I can still remember those crisp fall nights when my mom would whip up this delightful soup, filling our home with that mouth-watering scent. We’d gather around the table, laughter ringing out as we fought over the last bits of bacon. This creamy concoction isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in with your favorite movie.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy baked potato soup is incredibly easy to make, even for novice cooks.
The flavor is rich and indulgent, thanks to the combination of bacon and cheese.
Visually, it’s a warm hug in a bowl, garnished with fresh herbs and crispy toppings.
Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course, it fits any occasion perfectly.

Ingredients for Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Russet Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes are perfect for soups; their starchiness gives that creamy texture we love. For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe recipe.
Bacon: Go for thick-cut bacon; its crispy goodness adds depth and flavor to your soup.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that rich flavor boost; feel free to use mild if you prefer something less intense.
Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness; sautéing enhances its flavor beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic goodness; it makes everything better!
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level while adding depth to the soup.
Heavy Cream: For that dreamy creaminess that’ll have you going back for seconds (or thirds).
Sour Cream: A dollop adds tanginess and balances the richness of the cheese.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Remove it from the pot and let it drain on paper towels—try not to eat all of it before adding it back in!

Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies

In the same pot (don’t wash away that delicious bacon grease), add diced onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing.

Step 3: Add Potatoes

Next, toss in those glorious russet potatoes. Stir them around for a few minutes before adding chicken broth. Bring it all to a boil then reduce heat and let simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 4: Blend It Up

Once your taters are soft enough to poke through with a fork, use an immersion blender (or regular blender) to puree until smooth! If you like some texture, blend only half of it.

Step 5: Stir In Creamy Goodness

Pour in heavy cream and bring back your crispy bacon along with most of your cheddar cheese (saving some for garnish). Stir well until everything is combined and melty—yes please!

Step 6: Serve It Right

Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese, sour cream dollops, and any extra toppings you desire like chives or more bacon crumbles for added crunch.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it! A bowl of pure comfort food packed with flavor that’ll make you feel like you’ve been wrapped in a warm blanket after just one sip. Enjoy every creamy bite!

You Must Know

This creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese is a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s comforting, easy, and perfect for chilly evenings.
Plus, it’s customizable, so you can make it your own masterpiece while impressing your friends and family.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking or boiling the potatoes until soft. While they cool, cook the bacon until crispy. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pan to absorb all that meaty goodness. Then, combine everything with broth and cream for a luscious finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences! Try adding some broccoli for color or using different cheeses like cheddar or gouda. You can also sprinkle in some chives or sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the creamiest texture, blend half of the soup and mix it back in.
This creates a velvety consistency while keeping some potato chunks intact.
Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving!

Sometimes I think my family loves this creamy baked potato soup more than they love me! The way their eyes light up when I serve it is priceless—especially when I load it up with extra bacon and cheese!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese?

To make this delicious creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese, gather the following ingredients: potatoes, bacon, onion, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, shredded cheese (like cheddar), milk, and your choice of seasonings such as salt and pepper. You can also add toppings like chives or sour cream for extra flavor. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days and is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese?

Preparing creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 30 to 40 minutes of cooking. First, you will need to cook the bacon and sauté the vegetables. Then, simmer the potatoes in chicken broth until tender. Finally, blend everything together with cream and cheese for that rich taste. In less than an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve. For more inspiration, check out this spicy chorizo sweet potato chili recipe.

Can I freeze Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese! To properly freeze it, let the soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It’s best to store individual portions for easy reheating later. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave. While freezing may slightly alter the texture, the flavors remain delicious.

What are some variations of Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese?

There are many ways to customize creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese! For a healthier option, try using cauliflower instead of potatoes or substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream. Add vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition. If you’re a fan of spice, consider incorporating jalapeños or hot sauce. These variations maintain that comforting essence while allowing you to explore new flavors.

Conclusion for Creamy Baked Potato Soup Loaded with Bacon & Cheese :

In conclusion, creamy baked potato soup loaded with bacon and cheese is an irresistible dish that combines comfort and flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. You can even customize it to suit your taste preferences while retaining its deliciousness. Serve this hearty meal topped with your favorite garnishes for an unforgettable experience that will warm everyone’s hearts on chilly days.