Baby, it's cold outside and it's time to make a warm, comforting meal. This loaded baked potato soup is the perfect dish to warm you up and satisfy your hunger. Serve with a crusty bread and a side salad.
1 lb. bacon, chopped, divided
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 c. flour
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
3 c. vegetable or chicken stock
6-8 large potatoes, scrubbed and cubed
salt and pepper, to taste
3 c. heavy whipping cream
3 c. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
sour cream, green onions, for topping
Cook bacon in a soup pot until crisp; transfer bacon to a paper towel lined plate to drain; set aside.
Remove bacon grease, reserving 3-4 T. in the soup pot. In the same pot, cook the onions and celery over medium-high heat until onions are translucent; add the garlic; cook for 1 minute.
Stir in the flour; gradually add the vegetable/chicken stock; continue to stir until fully incorporated. Add the potatoes, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat; cook 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are soft.
Add whipping cream; heat through. Add half of the bacon and 2 c. cheese; stir until the cheese is completely melted.
Garnish with remaining bacon, cheese, sour cream and green onions.
6-8 servings.