Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing more comforting on a chilly day than a bowl of warm, creamy soup. This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the creamy texture of baked potatoes with the smoky crunch of bacon, all topped with your favorite baked potato toppings. Perfect for family dinners or as a meal prep option, this soup is a hit with everyone!

Preparation Time 

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
• 8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, extra shredded cheese, bacon bits

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Scrub the potatoes clean, peel them if desired, and dice them into small cubes. Set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy.
2. Remove the bacon pieces using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

1. Add butter to the pot with the bacon grease and melt it over medium heat.
2. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they are fragrant and the onion is translucent (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Create the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
2. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking as you go to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Simmer

1. Stir in the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

1. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially, leaving some chunks of potatoes for a hearty bite. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer a portion of the soup to a countertop blender, blend, and return it to the pot.

Step 7: Add Dairy and Cheese

1. Stir in the milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
2. Continue stirring over low heat until the cheese has melted and the soup is thick and creamy.

Step 8: Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite baked potato toppings: crispy bacon bits, extra cheese, and green onions.

Pro Tips 

1. Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes are a good alternative.
2. Blending: Adjust the texture to your preference—blend more for a creamy soup or less for a chunkier one.
3. Bacon: For added crunch, save a few whole slices of bacon for garnish.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect meal to warm your heart and home. Its rich, creamy consistency paired with savory bacon and melty cheese is truly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup guarantees smiles around the table. Make it your own by customizing the toppings—add a dollop of sour cream, sprinkle extra cheese, or garnish with fresh green onions.

Save this recipe and enjoy it on rainy days, family gatherings, or anytime you crave comfort in a bowl. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Try it today and experience the joy of homemade comfort food!