Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Discover the creamy, hearty flavors of Loaded Baked Potato Soup, your ultimate comfort food for cozy, flavorful meals anytime. This classic soup combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and fragrant herbs into a warm and satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to share, Loaded Baked Potato Soup hits every mark with its rich texture and familiar, delicious flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Comfort: Every spoonful delivers velvety smoothness with tender chunks of potatoes that satisfy deeply.
• Simple to Make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy cooks.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the toppings and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it brings everyone together around the table.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether chilly or mild, this soup warms your soul all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create big flavors and textures. Each component plays a unique role, whether adding creaminess, a punch of flavor, or a bit of crisp crunch.

• Russet Potatoes: The star ingredient, offering the ideal starchy base with a tender texture when cooked.
• Bacon: Adds smoky, salty crunch and depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the soup for that signature cheesy richness.
• Onion and Garlic: Provide aromatic warmth and complexity.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a flavorful liquid base that balances creaminess without heaviness.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: Blend together to create the luscious, creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting.
• Sour Cream: Adds tang and richness, enhancing the creamy mouthfeel.
• Chives or Green Onions: A fresh, subtle oniony note to finish the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together perfectly.

Variations for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak it with ease to fit your dietary preferences or liven it up with creative twists. Feel free to experiment with any of these variations to make the soup your own.

• Vegetarian Version: Omit bacon and use vegetable broth, and consider adding smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly take.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Extra Protein: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or crumbled sausage for a heartier meal.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk and vegan cheese substitutes to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Vegetables

Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy; remove and set aside. In the rendered fat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Add peeled and cubed russet potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Blend and Add Cream

Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup for a creamy yet chunky texture. Stir in milk, heavy cream, and sour cream, heating gently without boiling.

Step 4: Season and Add Cheese

Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly into the soup.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon pieces, chopped chives, and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot for the ultimate comfort experience.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Use Russet Potatoes: Their high starch content gives the soup the perfect creamy yet chunky consistency.
• Don’t Over-blend: Puree just part of the soup to keep lovely potato chunks that add texture.
• Add Cheese Gradually: Stir cheese in off the heat to avoid curdling and ensure smooth melt.
• Save Some Bacon for Garnish: It adds that irresistible crispy contrast in every bite.
• Adjust Thickness: Use more or less broth and cream based on your preferred soup consistency.
• Season Carefully: Potatoes absorb salt, so be sure to taste and adjust seasoning at the end.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Garnishes

Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream to add layers of flavor and texture that bring the soup to life.

Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs perfectly with fresh crusty bread, garlic toast, or a crisp green salad to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in bread bowls for a rustic touch or sprinkle with finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill for a bright, fresh finish that complements the rich soup beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; note that creaminess might slightly change, so reheat gently and stir well.

Reheating

Warm the soup over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess that may separate during storage.

FAQs

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy milk and cream with coconut or almond milk, and use vegan cheese to enjoy a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.

Is it necessary to use bacon in the soup?

No, bacon adds smoky flavor and texture, but you can omit it for a vegetarian version or replace it with smoked paprika for a similar smoky taste.

How thick should the soup be?

The soup should be creamy with potato chunks; not too thick or too thin. Adjust by adding more broth to thin or simmering longer to thicken.

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Russet potatoes are best for texture, but Yukon gold can work as a creamier, waxier alternative; avoid red potatoes as they don’t break down well.

What toppings go best with Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Popular toppings include crispy bacon, shredded cheddar, sour cream, chives, green onions, and even a sprinkle of smoked paprika or hot sauce for heat.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. With creamy potatoes, crisp bacon, and rich cheddar cheese all in one bowl, this soup is sure to become a staple recipe in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug every time.

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