Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded baked potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—a creamy, hearty dish packed with the flavors of a loaded baked potato. With rich cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and fresh chives, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy, indulgent meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and hearty: This soup is thick, creamy, and full of texture and flavor.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to prepare.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the toppings and add-ins to suit your preferences.
• Great for meal prep: Reheats beautifully for lunches and dinners throughout the week.
• Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves the taste of a loaded baked potato in soup form.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Russet potatoes
• Butter
• Onion
• Garlic
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken broth
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Bacon
• Sour cream
• Chives
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this Recipe

1. Preheat the oven and bake the potatoes until tender. Allow them to cool, then peel and dice.
2. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some drippings in the pot.
3. Add butter to the pot, followed by diced onion. Sauté until softened. Stir in garlic.
4. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and cook briefly to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
5. Add milk, heavy cream, and diced potatoes. Simmer until the soup thickens and the potatoes break down slightly.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, sour cream, chives, and extra cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or diced ham for an extra protein boost.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Lower calorie: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
• Extra veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli or corn for additional flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup without toppings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup is too thick.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

What are the best potatoes for this soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Absolutely. Using pre-cooked bacon saves time and works well in this recipe.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

Mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives, and skip the sour cream.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What toppings go well with this soup?

Classic toppings include shredded cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and chives. You can also add jalapeños or green onions.

Can I use an immersion blender?

Yes, use an immersion blender to achieve a smoother consistency, but avoid blending all the potatoes to maintain some texture.

How long does it take to bake the potatoes?

Baking large potatoes in the oven typically takes about 45-60 minutes at 400°F.

Can I use canned potatoes?

Canned potatoes can be used in a pinch, but fresh baked potatoes offer the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Loaded baked potato soup is a rich and satisfying dish that brings all the best flavors of a classic baked potato into a cozy, spoonable form. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a comforting starter, this soup is sure to be a hit. With easy customization options and make-ahead convenience, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

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