Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

The Creamiest Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort meets culinary magic in this delightful loaded baked potato soup that promises warmth with every spoonful.

Creamy textures blend seamlessly with hearty ingredients, creating a bowl of pure satisfaction.

Potatoes take center stage, their rich, velvety essence capturing the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Crispy bacon bits and sharp cheddar cheese dance across the surface, adding layers of irresistible flavor.

Chives sprinkled on top bring a fresh, subtle kick that awakens your taste buds.

Families and friends will find themselves drawn to this soul-warming recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.

You can’t help but fall in love with each comforting, indulgent bite.

Prepare to be transported to a world of delicious simplicity that celebrates the humble potato in all its glory.

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Key Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

For the Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy and creamy base that provides the signature texture and flavor of the soup.
  • Chicken Broth: Rich liquid that adds depth and savory notes to the soup's foundation.
  • Milk: Provides smoothness and helps create a creamy consistency.
For the Dairy and Cheese:
  • Sour Cream, Cheese: Add richness and tangy flavor to enhance the soup's overall taste.
  • Butter: Creates a smooth base and helps develop the soup's roux.
For the Seasonings and Toppings:
  • Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that build layers of flavor in the soup.
  • Bacon, Green Onions: Crispy and fresh toppings that provide textural contrast and additional flavor.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the soup and create a smooth, velvety texture.

How to Cook Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Potato Base

Wash potatoes thoroughly. Bake or microwave until completely tender.

Carefully peel the skin and gently mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.

Step 2: Create Flavor Foundation

Heat a large pot over medium flame.

Melt butter until it becomes golden and bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases a fragrant aroma, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Develop Creamy Roux

Sprinkle flour into the butter-garlic mixture, whisking vigorously to create a smooth paste. Gradually pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Whole milk

Whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 4: Blend and Simmer

Incorporate the mashed potatoes into the creamy liquid. Allow the soup to simmer gently, stirring occasionally.

The mixture will naturally thicken and develop a rich, velvety consistency.

Step 5: Enhance Flavor Profile

Stir in:
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Mix until ingredients are fully incorporated and cheese begins to melt.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Top the soup with crispy crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, and finely chopped green onions. Ladle into warm bowls and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Helpful Suggestions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Opt for starchy russet potatoes to achieve the creamiest, most luxurious soup texture.
  • Gradually whisk broth and milk to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, silky consistency.
  • Use crispy bacon bits as a garnish just before serving to maintain their crunchiness and prevent sogginess.
  • Keep the soup on low heat after adding sour cream to prevent curdling and maintain a rich, velvety finish.
  • Consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream without compromising the soup's creamy profile.

Alternative Styles for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Vegetarian Potato Soup: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth, swap bacon for crispy roasted mushrooms or tempeh bits. Add nutritional yeast for extra cheesy flavor.
  • Southwest Potato Soup: Mix in diced green chiles, cumin, and cilantro. Top with fresh salsa, jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
  • Cauliflower Potato Soup: Blend steamed cauliflower with potatoes to create a lighter, lower-carb version. Garnish with roasted cauliflower florets and herb-infused olive oil.
  • Rustic Farmhouse Soup: Stir in diced carrots and celery during sautéing. Use heavy cream instead of milk, and finish with fresh thyme and crispy pancetta crumbles.

Serving Ideas for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Cozy Comfort Bowl: Ladle the creamy soup into deep ceramic mugs for a rustic, homey feel. Top with extra crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of chives for a satisfying crunch.
  • Soup and Salad Duo: Pair the rich potato soup with a light, crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The contrast of flavors and textures creates a balanced meal that feels both indulgent and fresh.
  • Bread Basket Companion: Serve alongside warm, crusty sourdough bread or cheesy garlic toast. Guests can dip and soak up the creamy soup, making each bite more delightful and interactive.

Storage Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing other food odors.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup seems too thick. Avoid boiling to prevent separation of dairy ingredients.

FAQs

  • Is this soup healthy?

While delicious, it’s a comfort food with high calories from butter, cheese, and bacon. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip bacon. Use plant-based cheese and sour cream alternatives for a vegetarian version.

  • What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture and ability to create a creamy soup consistency. They break down easily and provide rich flavor.

  • How can I make the soup less thick?

Add extra chicken broth or milk gradually to thin the soup to your preferred consistency. Stir continuously while adding liquid to maintain smooth texture.

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Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe


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4.5 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy loaded baked potato soup delivers comfort in a bowl with hearty potatoes and classic toppings. Rich flavors blend seamlessly, ensuring you savor each spoonful of this classic American comfort dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 6 large russet potatoes
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast whole potatoes in a 400°F oven for 45-50 minutes until easily pierced with a fork, then carefully remove skins and gently crush into chunks.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed stockpot, melt butter over medium-low heat and sauté minced garlic until aromatic and golden, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle flour into the butter-garlic mixture, whisking continuously to create a smooth, pale roux without browning.
  4. Gradually pour chicken broth and milk into the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a silky texture.
  5. Incorporate potato chunks into the liquid base, allowing the soup to simmer gently for 10-12 minutes until it thickens and develops a creamy consistency.
  6. Remove from heat and fold in sour cream and shredded cheese, stirring until completely integrated and velvety.
  7. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
  8. Ladle soup into warm bowls and top with crispy bacon bits, additional cheese, and finely chopped green onions for a vibrant presentation.

Notes

  • Choose starchy russet potatoes for the creamiest, most authentic potato soup texture that melts perfectly in the broth.
  • Gently mash potatoes instead of completely pureeing to maintain some chunky potato pieces for a more rustic, hearty feel.
  • For a lighter version, swap whole milk with low-fat milk and use turkey bacon as a healthier protein alternative.
  • use vegan cheese and coconut bacon for plant-based diets, or add Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 368 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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