Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup – The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food

If comfort had a flavor, I’m convinced it would taste exactly like a big, steaming bowl of loaded baked potato soup. This recipe has everything you crave on a chilly evening—creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions. The best part? You can have all the flavors of a baked potato in a single, cozy bowl of soup that’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or those nights when you just want to curl up on the couch.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Save

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy – The velvety base makes this soup irresistible.
  • All-in-One Comfort – It’s like a fully loaded baked potato but spoonable.
  • Customizable – Easily adapt to your taste or dietary needs.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep and freezing.

Recipe Details

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk for extra creaminess)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Sour cream, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Required

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  1. Cook the bacon – In your soup pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Sauté veggies – Add onion and cook until soft, then stir in garlic for 1 minute.
  3. Make the roux – Melt butter in the pot, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Add liquids – Slowly whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Stir until smooth.
  5. Add potatoes – Stir in diced potatoes, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until tender (about 15 minutes).
  6. Finish with cheese – Stir in cheddar until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve and garnish – Top with bacon, green onions, extra cheese, and sour cream.

Tips for Making the Best Potato Soup

  • Use russet potatoes for the fluffiest texture.
  • For ultra creaminess, partially mash the potatoes right in the soup.
  • Shred your own cheese – pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
  • Add a splash of hot sauce for extra depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Boiling too hard – It can make potatoes break down too much and create a gummy texture.
  • Skipping the roux – This is what gives the soup a rich, thick base.
  • Adding dairy too early – Always add milk/cream after potatoes are cooked to prevent curdling.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Lighter version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and skip some of the cheese.
  • Vegetarian – Swap chicken broth for veggie broth and omit bacon (try smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor).
  • Extra protein – Add shredded rotisserie chicken.
  • Spicy twist – Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

How to Store and Meal Prep

  • Fridge – Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer – Freeze for up to 2 months (note: dairy may slightly separate; reheat slowly).
  • Reheat – Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup Save
Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Serve in bread bowls for a restaurant-style touch.
  • Top with crispy fried onions for crunch.
  • Pair with a crusty baguette and a side salad.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook bacon first, then combine all ingredients (except dairy and cheese) in the slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours. Stir in dairy and cheese before serving.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
You can, but it will have a sweeter, slightly different flavor profile.

Why did my soup turn grainy?
This can happen if you use pre-shredded cheese or boil after adding dairy.

Related Post: Spicy Thai Coconut Soup

Conclusion

Loaded baked potato soup is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation all year long. It’s hearty, customizable, and comes together in under an hour. Whether you make it for a cozy family dinner or freeze a batch for easy weeknight meals, this is comfort food at its finest.