Craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This Betty Crocker inspired Loaded Potato Soup recipe is your answer. It’s the perfect blend of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese – all the hallmarks of a truly exceptional loaded potato experience, transformed into a hearty and healthy soup. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or delicious dishes for a cozy night in, this homemade cooking masterpiece fits the bill.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses common pantry items, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Guide to Deliciousness
This loaded potato soup recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the cubed potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend for Creamy Texture: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
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Stir in Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and shredded cheddar cheese. Heat through until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
Tips and Tricks for Soup Perfection
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their fluffy texture when cooked.
- Broth Selection: Chicken broth adds a richer, more savory flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it Heartier: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for a more substantial meal.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup for some heat.
- Vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Baked Potato Soup: For a truly indulgent experience, bake the potatoes before adding them to the soup. This adds a smoky depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Betty Crocker inspired Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste. Enjoy this comforting classic anytime you crave a delicious and easy-to-make soup! It's a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience for both experienced cooks and those just starting their culinary journey.