Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Applebee's Loaded Potato Soup with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup packs a punch of rich flavors, offering the perfect blend of textures and tastes from creamy potatoes to crispy bacon bits. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe will satisfy your soul.
How to Prepare Ingredients
- Potatoes: Use 4 large russet potatoes, wash them thoroughly, and dice into bite-sized pieces. Avoid peeling to maintain the rustic appeal.
- Bacon: Cook 8 strips of bacon until crispy, then crumble it to sprinkle over the soup.
- Cheese: Shred 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. This will be melted into the soup and used for garnishing.
- Onions: Chop 1 medium onion finely for the base of your soup.
- Green Onions: Slice 4 green onions to use as a fresh garnish.
- Butter and Flour: You’ll need 1⁄4 cup of unsalted butter and 1⁄3 cup of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.
- Milk and Chicken Broth: Use 2 cups of whole milk and 3 cups of chicken broth for the liquid base.
- Seasonings: Gather salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme for flavoring.
🍲 Note: Using Russet potatoes provides a starchier base, which thickens the soup naturally, creating a heartier texture.
Cooking Steps
- Sauté the Bacon: Begin by cooking your bacon until crispy. This not only flavors your soup with that smoky essence but also provides a delightful crunch for topping.
- Prepare the Potatoes: While the bacon is cooking, start boiling your potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Create the Roux: In the same pot you cooked the bacon, melt butter, add onions, and cook until translucent. Stir in flour to make a roux, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth to your roux, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add your seasonings - salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
- Add Potatoes: Incorporate the cooked potatoes into the soup base. Allow this to simmer gently to meld the flavors.
- Cheese Integration: Reduce heat and add shredded cheese, stirring until completely melted into the soup.
- Cooking Time: Simmer the soup for about 10-15 minutes to thicken, ensuring not to boil to avoid cheese separation.
Serving Suggestions
- Toppings: Garnish with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of cheddar, and fresh green onions.
- Accompaniments: Serve alongside garlic bread or a simple green salad to complement the hearty soup.
- Presentation: Use wide, shallow bowls to display the array of toppings, enhancing visual appeal.
👨🍳 Note: Toppings like bacon and green onions add a vibrant burst of color and texture, making the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.
Variations to Try
- Vegan Option: Substitute with vegan cheese and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Also, use plant-based butter and skip the bacon or use coconut bacon.
- Spicy Variation: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Protein Rich: Stir in shredded chicken or diced ham for an extra protein boost.
- Creamy Alternative: For an even creamier soup, blend part of the soup before adding the cheese.
💡 Note: Experimenting with different toppings and ingredients can personalize this soup, making it unique to your taste.
Our journey into crafting Applebee's Loaded Potato Soup has highlighted how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that's both comforting and indulgent. This soup encapsulates the essence of homestyle cooking, where the rich taste of potatoes melds perfectly with the sharpness of cheddar and the smokiness of bacon. Whether enjoyed in the quiet moments of solitude or shared during a lively family dinner, this soup promises to be a memorable addition to your culinary repertoire. Its versatile nature allows for personal twists, ensuring that each bowl is a personalized experience. With every spoonful, the warmth of this soup invites you to savor the moment, embracing the joy of cooking and the comfort of food.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, and you might want to add a splash of milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
What can I use as a substitute for cheddar cheese?
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If you’re out of cheddar, or looking for a different flavor profile, you can use other cheeses like gouda, pepper jack for some heat, or Swiss for a milder taste. However, the sharpness of cheddar complements the potatoes well.
Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?
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Yes, you can freeze Loaded Potato Soup, but be aware that the texture might change slightly upon thawing. Best to freeze without the cheese and bacon toppings, adding them fresh when serving to retain their crispiness.
