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Loaded Potato Soup

A rich, creamy soup combining tender potatoes, savory bacon, and plenty of cheese, perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty lunch.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the soup
  • 1 package 12 oz turkey bacon
  • 1.5 cups chopped onion
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 lb baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • ⅔ cup butter
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup diced cooked turkey
  • 1 container 8 oz sour cream
  • 2.5 cups 10 oz shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
  • ¾ cup sliced green onions, divided

Method
 

Cook the Bacon and Onion
  1. In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat for about 6 to 7 minutes, until it turns crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside, keeping 2 tablespoons of the drippings in the skillet.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the drippings and cook until softened, about 6 minutes.
Simmer the Potatoes
  1. In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the cooked onion, chicken broth, and cubed potatoes.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender enough to mash with a fork.
Make the Roux
  1. In the same skillet used for the bacon, melt the butter over low heat.
  2. Stir in the flour using a whisk until it’s smooth. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk until blended and smooth.
Build the Soup Base
  1. Pour the milk mixture into the pot with the potatoes and broth.
  2. Add the remaining 2 cups of milk, along with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens and begins to bubble.
Add the Fillings
  1. Stir in the diced turkey, half of the crispy bacon, the sour cream, 2 cups of the shredded Cheddar cheese, and ½ cup of the green onions.
  2. Cook gently until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
Serve with Toppings
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions.
  2. Enjoy it hot alongside a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal!

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, you can substitute half-and-half or cream for some of the milk. Feel free to add chopped carrots or celery for added nutrition. Spice it up with cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.