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#### **Instructions**:
##### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small, even pieces. You don’t need to be too precise with the size, but cutting them into small chunks will help them cook evenly and make the soup smoother.
##### Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Save a small amount of bacon fat for later to sauté the onions and garlic.
##### Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot used to cook the bacon, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
##### Step 4: Add the Broth and Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
##### Step 5: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smoother, creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup. Use an immersion blender to purée about half of the soup directly in the pot, or transfer half of the soup to a blender. Blend until smooth and then return the puréed soup to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.
##### Step 6: Add Milk, Cream, and Cheese
Once the potatoes are tender, add the whole milk and heavy cream to the pot, stirring until combined. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy base. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
##### Step 7: Add Bacon and Simmer
Add the crumbled bacon to the soup, reserving some for topping. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together
and the soup to thicken slightly.
##### Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream, extra cheddar cheese, the remaining crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately, and enjoy the comforting, creamy goodness of your **Loaded Baked Potato Soup**.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup**
– **For extra flavor**, try roasting the potatoes in the oven before adding them to the soup. This enhances their natural sweetness and gives the soup a deeper, more complex flavor.
– **Make it spicy** by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup base, or top it with **jalapeños**.
– **Use a good-quality broth**—homemade or store-bought—because it plays a significant role in the flavor of the soup.
– If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can replace the bacon with **crispy fried shallots** for a similar crunch and flavor.
– To make the soup even heartier, add **shredded chicken** or **ground sausage**.
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### **Pairing Suggestions**
Although **Loaded Baked Potato Soup** is a meal in itself, it can be paired with a variety of sides to complete your dining experience. Consider serving it with:
– **Crusty bread** or a **warm baguette** for dipping.
– A **fresh green salad** with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the soup.
– **Garlic bread** or **cheese toast** for added indulgence.
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### **Conclusion: A Comforting Classic**
There’s something inherently comforting about a steaming bowl of **Loaded Baked Potato Soup**. It’s the perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a cozy dinner with loved ones or preparing a hearty meal for a special gathering. The rich, creamy base combined with the delicious toppings of cheese, bacon, and green onions make it a dish that’s both filling and satisfying.
By following the easy steps outlined in this guide, you can create a comforting, flavorful bowl of soup that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Whether enjoyed as an entrée or a side, **Loaded Baked Potato Soup** is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire.
