Description
Discover how to make a hearty Loaded Baked Potato Soup with this easy recipe. Learn the step-by-step process for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 potatoes (about 900g), scrubbed
- 8 beef bacon slices
- 4 tbsp (60 ml) vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) yellow onion
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) low fat milk
- 1 cup (240 ml) half and half
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken stock
- 1 tsp (5 ml) salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp (3 ml) garlic salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp (3 ml) black pepper
- 1 cup (240 ml) mild cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (240 ml) plain yogurt
- fresh chives, for garnish
Instructions
- Prick the potatoes with a fork several times, then cook them in the microwave for 12 to 15 minutes until they become soft. Carefully cut them in half and allow them to cool. Once they are cool enough to touch, peel them and cut them into pieces.
- While waiting, fry the bacon strips in a pan over medium-high heat until they are crispy. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain and cool down. Keep up to 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease from the pan, discarding the rest. Once the bacon is cooled, break it into small bits.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low heat. Add the saved bacon grease, minced garlic, and onion, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens. Gradually stir in the flour and continue stirring for 1 to 2 minutes. Slowly incorporate the milk and half-and-half, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Gradually pour in the chicken stock. Allow the mixture to gently simmer and add the salt, garlic salt, and black pepper. Keep the mixture at a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- If you’d like to save some cheese and bacon for topping, set aside 1/4 cup of each. Blend in the remaining cheese, bacon, and yogurt. Remove the pot from the stove. Add the potato chunks into the pot, mashing them into smaller pieces or leaving them as they are, depending on your liking. Serve while hot, garnished with your preferred toppings like cheese, bacon, and chopped chives.
Notes
- Consider using full-fat milk and half-and-half for a creamier soup.
- Customize the cheese blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Enhance the taste with a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika.
