Creamy Loaded Baked Potato and Broccoli Soup
This Creamy Loaded Baked Potato and Broccoli Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Packed with flavors of cheese, crispy bacon, and tender broccoli, this soup is both hearty and satisfying. Using convenient frozen hash browns, this recipe comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family. Serve topped with extra cheese and bacon for an indulgent finish!
8
Servings
380
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
pepper gravy mix
1 1/2 cups (about 3 envelopes)
water
1 cup
frozen hash browns
1 lb
chicken broth
6 cups
frozen broccoli, chopped
2 cups
shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups
cooked and crumbled bacon
1 cup
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the pepper gravy mix with water, stirring well to dissolve. Set this mixture aside.
2
In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, add the frozen hash browns, chicken broth, and chopped broccoli. Stir to combine.
3
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, continue to cook for 10 minutes until the hash browns are tender and the broccoli is cooked through.
4
Reduce heat to medium-low, and slowly stir in the prepared gravy mixture until fully incorporated.
5
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6
Remove from heat. Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese and bacon if desired.
7
For a slow-cooked option, transfer the soup to a crock pot to keep warm throughout the day. If the soup thickens too much, dilute it with milk until desired consistency is achieved.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
30g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Loaded Baked Potato and Broccoli Soup?
It is a hearty comfort soup made with frozen hash browns, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 servings.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use peeled and diced fresh potatoes, but you may need to increase the boiling time until they are tender.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 380 calories.
Is this soup vegetarian?
No, it contains chicken broth and bacon, but you can substitute them with vegetable broth and meat-free bacon bits.
What type of gravy mix should I use?
The recipe calls for pepper gravy mix, specifically about 3 envelopes to make 1.5 cups.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer the soup to a crock pot to keep it warm or cook it on low for several hours.
How do I thin out the soup if it becomes too thick?
If the soup thickens too much, especially when kept in a slow cooker, dilute it with a little milk until you reach your desired consistency.
What kind of cheese works best?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for the best flavor and creaminess.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh chopped broccoli works perfectly; just ensure it is cooked until tender during the boiling stage.
How long does it take to cook the hash browns?
The hash browns should be boiled for about 10 minutes until they are tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most pepper gravy mixes contain flour, so you would need to find a certified gluten-free gravy mix to make it gluten-free.
What are the main protein sources in this soup?
The protein comes primarily from the chicken broth, cheddar cheese, and bacon, totaling 20g per serving.
How much fat is in this soup?
There are 22.5g of fat per serving.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely, turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative for this recipe.
What toppings should I add?
Additional shredded cheese, extra crumbled bacon, and perhaps some chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream make great toppings.
How much water is needed for the gravy mix?
You should use 1 cup of water to dissolve the pepper gravy mix.
Does this soup contain fiber?
While the specific fiber count isn't listed, the broccoli and potatoes provide a natural source of dietary fiber.
Can I freeze this soup?
Because it contains a lot of dairy and potatoes, the texture may change slightly upon thawing, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, but it will significantly change the flavor profile and color of the soup.
Is there a lot of sugar in this recipe?
No, this is a savory recipe with minimal sugar content.
How much bacon is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, diced carrots or celery would be great additions; just sauté them before adding the broth.
What makes the soup 'creamy'?
The combination of the pepper gravy mix and the melted shredded cheddar cheese creates the creamy texture.
How much chicken broth do I need?
You will need 6 cups of chicken broth.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Colby Jack or Monterey Jack would also melt well in this soup.
Is this soup considered a main dish?
Yes, because it is hearty and contains protein, it is often served as a main course.
How do I prepare the gravy mix?
Dissolve the mix in water first in a separate small bowl before adding it to the boiling soup base.