NoJoMo – Saving the Best for Last

Well, I didn’t quite make all the entries this time either, but I sure did better than I’ve done in the past. I’ll have to agree with one of faves in saying that, for me also, it gets to be along the lines of a chore by the time the 20th rolls around. So, getting as far as I did is an accomplishment for me.

But, since this is the last day of NoJoMo, I’ll end it on a great note with an awesome recipe for those people that love soup. I made this tonight for dinner and it came out fantastic!

O’Charleys Loaded Potato Soup

3 lbs red potatoes
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
8 cups half-and-half
1 (16 ounce) package Velveeta cheese, melted
1 tsp. white pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. hot pepper sauce
1/2 lb bacon, fried crisp
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1. Dice unpeeled red potatoes into 1/2 inch cubes.
2. Place in large saucepan; cover with water and bring to a boil.
3. Let boil for 10 minutes or until 3/4 cooked.
4. In a separate pan, combine melted margarine and flour, mixing until smooth.
5. Place over low heat and gradually add half-and-half, stirring constantly.
6. Continue to stir until smooth and liquid begins to thicken.
7. Add melted Velveeta.
8. Stir well.
9. Drain potatoes and add to cream mixture.
10. Stir in pepper, garlic powder and hot pepper sauce.
11. Cover and cook over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12. Place soup into individual serving bowls and top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, chives and parsley.

Fortunately, for another fave, I don’t have a picture but I know that others will think that is unfortunate.

If you are thinking of making this soup, let me give a couple of pointers to you. First, add the half-and-half in eight increments. Second, stir constantly. Even after you get all the half-and-half into the pot, the mixture will seem very thin. Increasing the heat will help with thickening. Third and last, have someone help you get the bacon cooked and Velveeta melted. Your time will be spent stirring on a consistent basis.

Oh yeah, one last thing. Enjoy!

Blessings!