Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

If you have a craving for something creamy, comforting, and downright delicious, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what your soul needs. Imagine all the cozy flavors of a classic loaded baked potato transformed into a rich, velvety soup that warms you from the inside out. With every spoonful offering tender potatoes, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of fresh chives, this soup captures that irresistible baked potato magic in the most luxurious way. Trust me, once you try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe, it’ll quickly become your go-to comfort food for chilly days and anytime you want a bowl full of pure happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s fantastic about this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is how simple yet powerful the ingredients are. Each one plays a crucial role, from providing creamy texture and savory depth to giving the soup its vibrant color and signature flavor. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to bring this scrumptious dish to life.

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced: The hearty base that gives the soup its creamy body and comforting bite.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts flavor with a warm, savory punch.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, rich liquid to cook the potatoes and build the soup’s backbone.
• 2 cups milk: Lightens the texture while keeping the soup silky smooth.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and indulgent richness.
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Brings smoky, crispy goodness that’s integral to that classic loaded potato taste.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Offers tangy flavor and melts beautifully into the soup.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Sharpens the creaminess with a slight tang and thicker texture.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Contributes to the silky base and helps sauté the aromatics.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to just the right consistency.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup chopped chives for garnish: Fresh, mild oniony notes that brighten every spoonful.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Crispy Bacon Magic

Start by cooking those 8 slices of bacon in a large pot over medium heat until they’re perfectly crispy. This little ritual takes your soup to another level because that bacon flavor melts into the base, creating a smoky, savory foundation. After cooking, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about a tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot—it’s pure flavor gold.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, add the butter to the pot with the bacon grease. When it has melted, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them gently until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This step builds the depth of flavor that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Step 3: Create a Roux

Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir it into your onion and garlic mixture. Cook this for 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a light paste. This roux is what will thicken your soup and give it that perfect creamy texture you’re after.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Now, gradually whisk in your chicken broth, making sure to keep stirring so you don’t get any lumps. This mixture will start to take shape as the broth combines with your roux and aromatics.

Step 5: Simmer the Potatoes

Stir in the diced russet potatoes and bring everything to a boil. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and ready to melt into your soup’s creamy embrace.

Step 6: Blend to Perfection

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s smooth and dreamy. If you like a bit of potato texture, blend only partially so some chunks remain. This gives your soup wonderful body and a homemade feel.

Step 7: Stir in the Creamy Goodness

Now for the indulgent part: stir in the milk, heavy cream, sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then simmer on low until everything is heated through and the cheese melts into a velvety, cheesy delight.

Step 8: Add Bacon Back In

Crumble most of your crispy bacon and stir it back into the soup. Keep a little aside for that final garnish that makes each bowl pop with smoky flavor and crunch.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese, reserved bacon, and fresh chopped chives. Serve it hot and get ready for the ultimate cozy comfort experience!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To truly celebrate the Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe, garnishes play a starring role. Fresh chives bring a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness brilliantly. The remaining shredded cheddar cheese melts on top for gooey goodness, and crispy bits of bacon offer textural contrast. Don’t skip these little finishing touches—they elevate the soup from great to unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while warm crusty bread or buttery crackers are perfect for soaking up every last drop. If you want to keep the theme going, try a baked potato or stuffed potato skins for a hearty, potato-centric meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your soup inside mini bread bowls or hollowed-out small baked potatoes. You can also swirl in some sour cream right before serving for a marbled effect. To impress guests, create a “loaded potato” topping bar with various garnishes like diced green onions, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Presentation is part of the joy of this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe, so don’t hold back!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup tastes amazing even the next day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next bowl even more satisfying.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but keep in mind that potatoes can sometimes change texture slightly after thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely then transfer it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to prevent the dairy from curdling. Stir frequently to keep everything smooth and creamy. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it back up to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon substitute. You can also add smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without the meat.

What type of potatoes work best for this soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they have a fluffy texture and high starch content, which makes the soup creamy and thick. They also break down beautifully when cooked, giving that signature smoothness.

Can I use half-and-half instead of milk and cream?

Yes, using half-and-half is a great shortcut that still keeps the soup rich and creamy, though the texture may be slightly lighter. Just adjust seasoning as needed to maintain full flavor.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch slurry to thicken your soup. Just add it gradually while stirring to prevent lumps and maintain that perfect loaded baked potato soup texture.

Can this soup be made in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker except for cheese and sour cream. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cheese and sour cream at the end, stirring until melted and smooth.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family or friends on any cozy occasion. Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved classic comfort food—and you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy some serious deliciousness!

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