Description

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.

Ingredients

• 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

Steps

1. Cook bacon in a soup pot until crisp; transfer bacon to a paper towel lined plate to drain; set aside.
2. 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.
3. 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.