Cozy Baked Potato Soup 🥔🥓

Warm, creamy, and comforting, this Baked Potato Soup is the perfect dish for chilly evenings or any time you need a little comfort. Chunky potatoes, crispy bacon, and a blend of savory ingredients make this soup irresistible. Pair it with your favorite crusty bread for a complete meal that your family will love! 🍞❤️

Ingredients

For the soup

• 12 slices bacon
• 2/3 cup margarine (or butter for richer flavor)
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 7 cups milk
• 4 large baked potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 1/4 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large, deep skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside.

   🥓 For extra flavor, reserve a tablespoon of bacon drippings to enhance the base of your soup.

2. Make the Roux: In a stock pot or Dutch oven, melt the margarine over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and well combined.

   🌟 Whisking constantly here will prevent lumps! If you prefer a smoother soup, use a whisk to mix until you achieve a creamy consistency.

3. Add the Milk: Gradually stir in the milk, continuing to whisk constantly until the mixture thickens.

4. Add Potatoes and Onions: Stir in the cubed baked potatoes and chopped onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.

5. Simmer: Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Final Touches: Mix in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

   🧀 Try using a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for an extra layer of delicious flavor!

Tips for Perfect Soup

• Potatoes: For added texture, leave some potato chunks intact while mashing the rest lightly for creaminess.
• Garnish: Serve your soup topped with additional crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions for a colorful finish!

Variations

• Veggie Delight: Add chopped carrots and celery when you cook the onions for extra nutrition and flavor. 🥕🥬
• Spicy Kick: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat! 🌶️
• Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat milk and Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the dish while still keeping the richness.
• Vegan Option: Substitute bacon with smoked tempeh, margarine with coconut oil, and use non-dairy milk and sour cream alternatives for a plant-based twist.

This Baked Potato Soup is not just a recipe; it's an experience – perfect for gathering around the table and sharing wonderful moments! Enjoy! 🍲✨