Name: Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup That's Pure Comfort in a Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken broth (use low-sodium for better salt control); 4 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (fresh minced); 2 cups milk (whole or plant-based); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sour cream; 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled); 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1/4 cup chives (freshly chopped)

There’s a certain comfort that comes from the warm hug of a hearty soup, and my Loaded Baked Potato Soup delivers just that! Picture the rich, creamy texture that wraps around tender potatoes, combined with the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon; it’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This recipe not only stands out with its five-star flavor, but it also comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. You’ll find that this soup is a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful twist on the classic baked potato, and it’s freezer-friendly too! Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting friends, this dish is bound to impress. Are you ready to dive into the ultimate comfort food experience?

Why is Loaded Baked Potato Soup a must-try?

Irresistible Comfort: Enjoy the rich and creamy base that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or hosting friends, this soup will have everyone asking for seconds!
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Delight: Customize with your favorite toppings; try adding some Baked Parmesan Zucchini on the side for extra crunch!
Hearty Ingredients: With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar, each spoonful is a savory delight.
Indulge in this comforting classic that’s easier to make than you think!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients

Bring the heartiness of this classic soup to your kitchen with these must-have ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Russet potatoes – Peeling and dicing helps create that creamy texture necessary for a rich Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Onion – Adds depth of flavor; don't skip sautéing it to bring out sweetness!
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.
Chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth for better control of saltiness in the soup.

For the Creaminess

Milk – Whole milk gives the soup richness; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if desired.
Heavy cream – Ensures that luscious, velvety texture everyone loves in a warm bowl of soup.
Sour cream – Adds tang and enhances creaminess at the end for a delightful finish.

For the Flavor

Bacon – Crispy bits bring a salty crunch that perfectly complements the creamy base.
Sharp cheddar cheese – The star of the show! It melts beautifully for a rich, cheesy experience.

For Thickening

Butter – A must for sautéing the onion and garlic, enriching the flavor of your soup.
All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup and keeps it from being too runny; cook it briefly to eliminate raw flavor.

For Seasoning

Salt and pepper – Simple enhancements that balance the rich flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

For Garnish

Chives – Freshly chopped chives provide a lovely pop of color and mild onion flavor to finish your soup perfectly.

Remember, it's all about enjoying each delightful spoonful of your Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and let it drain on paper towels, leaving about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add 4 tablespoons of butter to the pot with the reserved bacon grease. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 5–7 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant, creating a deliciously inviting base for your Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Step 3: Create the Roux
Stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the sautéed vegetables, cooking for about 1–2 minutes until it forms a light paste. This roux will help thicken your soup later. Be sure to keep stirring to avoid any lumps and to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth
Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth while ensuring there are no lumps from the roux. Continue to stir for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken slightly. This rich base is what makes your Loaded Baked Potato Soup so satisfying.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes
Add the peeled and diced russet potatoes into the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend it only partially to keep some potato pieces intact. This blending step ensures that your Loaded Baked Potato Soup has that creamy, comforting consistency everyone loves.

Step 7: Incorporate Creaminess
Stir in 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, and ½ cup of sour cream to the blended soup. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for another 5–7 minutes, until heated through and the flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 8: Add Bacon and Cheese
Crumble the crispy bacon and stir most of it into the pot, reserving some for garnish. Then, add 1 ½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese melts completely and enriches the soup’s flavor, providing that signature comfort you crave in Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls and top with the remaining shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of chopped chives for freshness. Serve immediately while hot, and watch everyone enjoy this delightful bowl of comfort!

Make Ahead Options

These Loaded Baked Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop and store the potatoes, onion, and garlic in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that each ingredient maintains its freshness. Additionally, you can cook the bacon and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy your soup, simply sauté the prepped vegetables and follow the remaining steps, adding the bacon and cheese at the end. This method allows you to enjoy a warm, hearty soup with minimal effort, keeping the comfort intact while saving you precious time!

How to Store and Freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fridge: Store your Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently for even warming.

Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or thawed from the freezer, do so gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the soup appears too thick.

Serving: After reheating, garnish your soup with bacon, cheese, and chives for that fresh flavor boost!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Variations

Feel free to adapt this scrumptious Loaded Baked Potato Soup to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk and heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy, vegan-friendly option.
Coconut milk will add a unique sweetness, making each spoonful feel luxurious and indulgent without the calories from dairy!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup for a bit of heat.
This spicy twist will tantalize your taste buds and elevate the warm, comforting flavors to new heights!
Vegetable Boost: Add in some chopped broccoli or spinach for a nutrient-packed upgrade.
These greens not only make the soup richer in flavor but also add bright color and texture that everyone will love.
Loaded Deluxe: Top with extra fillings like crispy fried onions or guacamole for a textural contrast.
Each spoonful becomes a true "loaded" experience, making it perfect for special occasions or impressing guests!
Texture Variation: For a thicker soup, add more diced potatoes and mash some before blending.
This gives your Loaded Baked Potato Soup an even heartier feel, perfect for those chilly evenings when comfort is key!
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary towards the end for a fragrant twist.
Herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly, bringing a fresh, aromatic essence that compliments the creamy goodness beautifully.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked bacon or add a dash of liquid smoke to imitate that smoky, hearty flavor.
This substitution adds a delightful depth that makes this comforting dish all the more inviting!

Try out these variations and discover your favorite blend, and don’t forget to enjoy this warm hug of a soup with your choice of delicious sides like Baked Cauliflower Snack for extra comfort!

Expert Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfect Potato Prep: Use russet potatoes for the best creamy texture; they break down beautifully during cooking, enhancing the soup's richness.

Be Mindful of Blending: When blending, stop occasionally to check the texture; blending too much can turn the soup too smooth if you prefer some potato chunks in your Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Season Gradually: Always taste as you season with salt and pepper; it's easy to add, but hard to balance if you overdo it!

Avoid Overcooking Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt; burnt bits can give a bitter taste to your soup, detracting from its comforting flavors.

Simmer Gently: After adding dairy, keep the soup on low heat to avoid scorching; this keeps the soup smooth without compromising its creamy delights.

What to Serve with Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Elevate your dining experience by adding delicious sides that perfectly complement the creamy goodness of this comforting soup.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the soup, providing a delightful contrast to its creaminess. Dip it into the soup for extra flavor on each bite!
Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds a burst of color and crunch to your meal. The lightness of mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup.
Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green and tender texture not only provides health benefits but also balances the comforting flavors of the Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Cheesy Biscuits: These warm, fluffy biscuits are perfect for scooping up that luscious soup. Their cheesy flavor complements the cheddar in the soup, creating a harmonious experience.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing brings nostalgia to the table. The melty goodness of a grilled cheese adds another layer of warmth and satisfaction.
Spicy Pickle Chips: For a zesty kick, serve a side of pickles that contrast the creaminess of the soup. Their crunch adds texture, while the tang cuts through the richness.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot, enhances the savory flavors of the soup. Sip slowly and enjoy each mouthful, creating a rustic dining experience.
Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp. The comforting spices and flaky topping provide the perfect finish to a hearty dinner.

Each of these pairings enhances the overall experience, making your Loaded Baked Potato Soup truly memorable.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use for Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
I highly recommend using russet potatoes! They break down beautifully during cooking, giving your soup that creamy, velvety texture we all love. Their starch content also helps thicken the soup naturally.

How long can I store Loaded Baked Potato Soup in the fridge?
You can store your Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat it gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to keep it from sticking.

Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to adjust the consistency.

What should I do if my soup is too thick or too thin?
If your Loaded Baked Potato Soup is too thick, you can add a bit of milk or chicken broth during the reheating process. Start with a small amount, stirring until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it on low heat for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate, which thickens the soup.

Is this soup suitable for anyone with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies?
If you're dealing with lactose intolerance, there are great alternatives! You can substitute the milk and heavy cream with lactose-free options or use plant-based creams, such as cashew or almond cream, to achieve that creamy texture. Just be sure to choose a broth that complements these alternatives flavor-wise.

What are some toppings I can use for my Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
The more the merrier! I love garnishing my soup with extra crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and freshly chopped chives. You can also add a dollop of additional sour cream, or even a sprinkle of crispy onions for an added crunch. Get creative with your toppings to suit your taste!