Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

The Coziest Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe for Comfort Days

Comfort meets creativity in this loaded baked potato soup that promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Creamy textures blend with crispy bacon bits and melted cheese for a hearty meal.

potato lovers will adore the rich, velvety base that captures classic flavors with a modern twist.

Each ingredient tells a delicious story of home-style cooking and culinary passion.

Crisp green onions and sharp cheddar cheese add layers of complexity to this soul-satisfying dish.

Salt and pepper dance through the soup, balancing robust flavors that make you crave another bite.

You won’t believe how simple it is to create such a restaurant-worthy experience right in your kitchen.

Dive into this recipe and let your taste buds celebrate a comforting classic reimagined.

Storage Advice for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid adding toppings before freezing.
  • Transfer soup to microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add splash of milk if soup seems thick.
  • Pour soup into saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth or milk to restore original consistency. Heat until steaming and reaching 165°F internal temperature.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, Russet potatoes work best for this soup due to their starchy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier result.

  • Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace bacon with vegetarian bacon bits or smoked paprika, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

  • How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can add a bit of heavy cream or create a roux with butter and flour before adding the liquid ingredients.

  • Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

While you can freeze it, the texture might change slightly. The dairy and potatoes can separate, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, reheat slowly and stir well to recombine ingredients.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Full of Comfort

  • Quick Comfort Meal: Dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this hearty soup that wraps you in warmth and deliciousness.
  • Customize Your Bowl: Personalize each serving with toppings like crispy bacon, sharp cheese, and fresh green onions to match your mood.
  • Minimal Kitchen Effort: Prepare this crowd-pleaser with simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques that even beginner cooks can master.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with familiar flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime a delightful shared experience.

Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Main Ingredients:
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that provide the hearty base and creamy texture of the soup.
  • Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid that adds depth and richness to the soup's overall taste.
  • Milk: Creamy component that helps create a smooth and velvety soup consistency.
Meat and Dairy:
  • Bacon: Crispy, salty meat that adds a smoky flavor and crunchy topping to the soup.
  • Sour Cream: Tangy dairy product that enhances the soup's richness and provides a creamy finish.
  • Cheese: Melty, savory ingredient that adds extra flavor and creates a comforting taste.
Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Onions, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that build a flavor foundation for the soup.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Green Onions: Fresh, mild garnish that adds a pop of color and light onion flavor.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Roast Potato Treasures

Crank your oven to a toasty 400°F.

Slide whole potatoes onto a baking sheet and let them transform into tender, golden delights for about 45-60 minutes.

Once cooled, gently peel and chop into delectable cubes.

Step 2: Crisp Up Bacon Magic

Place a large pot on the stove and let bacon sizzle until perfectly crisp.

Carefully transfer the bacon to a plate, saving those crunchy bits for later.

Step 3: Build Flavor Foundation

In the same pot with bacon drippings, dance some chopped onions and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant.

Pour in:
  • Chicken broth
  • Milk
  • Cubed potatoes

Let everything simmer and mingle for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Create Creamy Texture

Grab a potato masher and gently crush some potatoes right in the pot, creating a luxurious, velvety consistency.

Step 5: Enhance With Delicious Extras

Stir in:
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheese
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting flavors blend beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls.

Top with:
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Chopped green onions
  • Extra cheese

Enjoy this comforting bowl of pure happiness!

Tips to Nail Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Choose starchy russet potatoes for the creamiest, most luxurious soup texture.
  • Cook bacon until extra crispy for maximum flavor and satisfying crunch as a topping.
  • Partially mash potatoes in the pot to create a thick, creamy consistency without using a blender.
  • Replace regular potatoes with cauliflower for a lighter, keto-friendly version of the soup.
  • Use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor, or mix cheeses like gruyere and cheddar for complexity.

Variation Ideas for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Vegetarian Potato Soup: Replace bacon with smoked paprika and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add diced mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
  • Dairy-Free Version: Swap milk and sour cream with coconut milk and cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a similar cheesy taste.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets. Reduce cooking time and use the same seasoning and toppings for a lighter version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Use cornstarch as a thickener if needed and check broth labels for potential gluten content.

Serving Suggestions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Cozy Comfort Bowl: Serve in deep ceramic mugs for a warm, homey dinner experience that feels like a hug.
  • Rustic Potato Party Platter: Arrange soup in a large family-style serving dish with toppings on the side, letting everyone customize their bowl.
  • Soup and Salad Combo: Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty sourdough bread for a complete, satisfying meal that balances the rich soup.
  • Winter Game Night Starter: Offer as a hearty appetizer before a main course during chilly evenings or sports watching gatherings.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty loaded baked potato soup combines creamy comfort with classic potato goodness. Home cooks will savor rich flavors and simple ingredients that bring warmth to family dinners.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Garnish and Seasoning:

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Roast potatoes at 400°F for 45-60 minutes until fully tender, then allow to cool completely before peeling and dicing into uniform cubes.
  2. Render bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy and golden, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the rendered fat.
  3. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic in the bacon drippings until translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  4. Pour chicken broth and milk into the pot, then add potato cubes, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Gently mash some potatoes against the pot’s side using a wooden spoon to create a thicker, creamier consistency without completely breaking down the potato chunks.
  6. Incorporate sour cream and shredded cheese, stirring until smoothly integrated, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes to meld flavors and ensure proper temperature.
  8. Ladle soup into serving bowls, garnishing with crumbled bacon, thinly sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.

Notes

  • Customize the soup’s thickness by adjusting the amount of potato mashing, creating a perfectly creamy or chunky texture that suits your preference.
  • Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or tempeh bacon to make the soup lighter or vegetarian-friendly, maintaining the rich, smoky flavor profile.
  • Enhance nutrition by adding roasted cauliflower or using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which boosts protein and reduces overall fat content without compromising taste.
  • Prepare potatoes ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to streamline the cooking process, making this comforting soup a quick weeknight meal option.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star