Loaded Baked Potato Soup

 I recently went to Outback with the family, among the various delicious things that were ordered that night was potato soup. I convinced my dad to let me have a bite ( or ten ) and it kind of turned my world inside out and upside down. It was one of the most delicious things that I have ever eaten! Of course, I decided that I was going to figure out how to make the most delicious soup you will ever eat. And here it is! As you can imagine, good potato soup is not figure friendly. Excessive butter + heavy cream are tasty on the lips and depressing on the hips. So, I have tweaked things a little bit. No need to feel bad about this recipe! It is über flavorful, but it lacks all of that excess fat. So enjoy! 

• You will need:
• Drizzle of Olive Oil
• 8 slices precooked turkey bacon ( chopped )
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 1 quart chicken stock
• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 can diced potatoes ( optional )
• 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• Chopped chives ( for garnish )

In a medium pot, heat a drizzle of Olive Oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Drain off excess bacon fat ( there won't be much ) from the pot and add butter. When the butter is melted, add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle flour into the pot and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in the chicken stock and bring to a bubble. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Whisk in mashed potatoes, then stir in the Monterey Jack cheese and diced potatoes, cook until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted. 

Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the reserved bacon and chives.

+ If you want to bring some extra pizazz to this, adding a little bit of garlic powder, salt, and plenty of pepper really kicks things up a bit. 

This recipe was a huge hit with the family! Some toasted Ciabatta bread on the side adds a little something special. This recipe is quick and easy, and much lighter than its restaurant style cousin. Have great Tuesday, and happy eating!

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