The aroma of loaded baked potato soup wafting through your kitchen feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine creamy potatoes swimming in rich broth, topped with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions that just dance on your taste buds. It’s the kind of dish that whispers sweet nothings to your soul and begs for cozy nights snuggled under blankets.
I remember the first time I made this delightful soup; my kitchen turned into a whirlwind of laughter and tasty disasters. My friends gathered around as I attempted to juggle boiling potatoes and frying bacon while trying not to burn my eyebrows off. We ended up with more laughter than soup, but the memories—oh, those were delicious! Loaded baked potato soup is perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or when you simply need comfort food that feels like home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This loaded baked potato soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy with a hint of smokiness from the bacon
- Visually appealing with its vibrant toppings, it’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences or dietary needs
I still chuckle when my friend took a giant spoonful and declared it was “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for their starchy texture that creates the perfect creamy base.
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Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crispiness in every bite.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for best results.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances depth; don’t skip this ingredient!
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
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Heavy Cream: This adds richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
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Shredded Cheese: Cheddar is classic here; choose sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide freshness and color as a topping.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors in the soup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing about 4 cups of russet potatoes into small cubes; they’ll cook faster this way.
Sauté Bacon & Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook 6 slices of thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble but leave some drippings for flavor.
Cook Onions & Garlic: In the same pot with remaining bacon drippings, sauté one chopped onion until translucent and fragrant. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking until aromatic.
Add Potatoes & Broth: Toss in diced potatoes along with 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring it all to a boil before reducing heat.
Blend it Smooth (Optional): Once potatoes are fork-tender after about 15 minutes, you can blend half the soup using an immersion blender if you prefer creamier consistency.
Finish with Cream & Toppings: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream once off heat. Top each bowl generously with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and green onions before serving.
Now take a moment to enjoy that incredible aroma filling your kitchen! Your loaded baked potato soup is ready to be devoured!
You Must Know
- This loaded baked potato soup is creamy and comforting, perfect for chilly nights
- The combination of cheese, bacon, and sour cream makes it a crowd-pleaser
- Don’t forget to garnish with chives for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then sauté onions and garlic in the drippings. Add diced potatoes and broth, simmer until tender, and finish with cream and toppings.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack. Experiment with toppings like jalapeños or avocado for a twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of cream
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning
- A dash of hot sauce adds a delightful kick!
The first time I made loaded baked potato soup was during a snowstorm; my friends raved about it! Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rock star.
FAQ
Can I make loaded baked potato soup vegetarian?
You can substitute vegetable broth and skip the bacon for a delicious vegetarian option.
How can I thicken my soup?
Blend part of the soup or add instant potato flakes for a thicker consistency.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but be aware that dairy may separate when thawed; stir well before reheating.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this loaded baked potato soup! Creamy russet potatoes meld perfectly in a rich, savory broth, topped with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. This soul-warming dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit any taste preference. Perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings, this soup invites laughter and warmth into your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble while reserving drippings.
- Sauté the chopped onion in the drippings until translucent; add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil and then reduce heat. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
- For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender.
- Stir in heavy cream off the heat; serve topped with crumbled bacon, cheese, and green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg