Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe | Easy, Creamy, and Delicious Comfort Food

Introduction

Warm, creamy, and packed with hearty flavors, loaded baked potato soup has become a beloved comfort food for many. It combines the rich taste of baked potatoes with the indulgence of cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup not only satisfies hunger but also delivers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that make every spoonful irresistible.

What sets this soup apart from your average potato soup is how it mimics all the toppings of a fully loaded baked potato, right in one bowl. The velvety potato base provides a smooth canvas while the toppings add bursts of savory and tangy notes. It’s a versatile recipe that fits perfectly into family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a special treat when you want to impress guests with something cozy yet flavorful.

Whether you are a beginner cook or someone who loves to experiment in the kitchen, this loaded baked potato soup recipe is easy to follow and highly customizable. You can make it rich and indulgent or lighter to suit your dietary preferences. The recipe captures all the classic flavors without being overly complicated, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a detailed list of ingredients required to make loaded baked potato soup. The table includes the calorie count per serving for each ingredient to help you keep track of nutritional intake while enjoying this delicious dish.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories (Approximate)
Russet potatoes	4 large (about 2 lbs)	520
Bacon strips	6 strips	270
Yellow onion	1 medium	45
Garlic cloves	3 cloves	15
Chicken broth	4 cups	60
Heavy cream	1 cup	820
Cheddar cheese (shredded)	1 ½ cups	600
Sour cream	½ cup	240
Butter	3 tablespoons	300
All-purpose flour	¼ cup	114
Salt	To taste	0
Black pepper	To taste	0
Green onions	3 stalks, sliced	10

Total approximate calories per serving (serves 6): 530

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon: Begin by frying the bacon strips in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until they become crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
2. Sauté aromatics: In the same pot with a little bacon grease left, add chopped onions and garlic. Cook over medium heat for about five minutes or until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
3. Cook the potatoes: Peel and dice the russet potatoes into uniform cubes. Add them to the pot and stir gently to coat with the onions and garlic.
4. Make the roux: Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for about two minutes, stirring constantly. This mixture will thicken the soup later.
5. Add broth and roux: Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring. Add the roux and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes become tender, approximately 15 minutes.Pair this meal with Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole _ for a complete experience.
6. Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, slightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture.
7. Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts smoothly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
8. Finish with toppings: Add the sour cream and most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish. Stir well and heat through for another few minutes on low heat.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and the remaining bacon pieces for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

This loaded baked potato soup can easily be tailored to suit your tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.

Cheese lovers can experiment with different varieties such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a bit of heat, or smoked gouda to add a deeper smoky flavor. To make it even more filling, consider adding cooked corn kernels or diced ham.

For those who enjoy a spicy kick, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños during the sauté step. Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs like thyme or chives can also elevate the flavor profile.

If you like a smoother soup, blend half of the mixture before adding cream and cheese. Conversely, for more texture, leave the potatoes chunky and add crispy fried onions on top as a garnish.

Nutritional Information

A generous serving of loaded baked potato soup delivers a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats. The russet potatoes provide essential potassium and vitamin C, while the cheese contributes calcium and protein. The soup’s creaminess comes primarily from the heavy cream and butter, which add richness and calories but also help keep you feeling full longer.

Each serving contains approximately 530 calories, making it a hearty option that can work well as a complete meal alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The protein from bacon and cheese supports muscle maintenance, while the fiber in potatoes aids digestion.

For those monitoring sodium intake, adjusting the amount of added salt or using low-sodium broth can help control salt levels without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Loaded baked potato soup is a meal all on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with complementary sides and toppings to create a well-rounded dining experience. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Warm crusty bread, garlic bread, or soft dinner rolls are excellent for dipping and soaking up every bit of the flavorful broth. For a fun twist, serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls.

Additional toppings like extra shredded cheese, chopped fresh herbs, diced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce can personalize each bowl. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds subtle heat and depth.

To balance the richness, serve with steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. A light fruit salad or baked apples on the side make for a delightful finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make loaded baked potato soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The soup can be prepared a day in advance and reheated on the stove. It may thicken after refrigeration, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to adjust consistency.

Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is possible but not recommended due to the dairy content. Cream-based soups can separate and change texture after thawing. If freezing is necessary, stir well after reheating.

What is the best potato to use?
Russet potatoes work best because they have a fluffy texture that breaks down nicely, thickening the soup while maintaining some chunkiness.

How can I make this soup vegan?
Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use plant-based butter and cream substitutes, skip bacon or use vegan bacon, and use vegan cheese.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup without gluten.

Conclusion

Loaded baked potato soup offers the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity. Each spoonful delivers warmth and richness that make this dish a favorite for cold days and cozy evenings. Whether enjoyed as a family meal or a special treat, its familiar flavors bring a sense of satisfaction and joy.