Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe – Ultimate Comfort

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe – When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, creamy bowl of soup — and this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe delivers pure comfort in every spoonful. Inspired by the classic loaded baked potato, this hearty soup features creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and a touch of sour cream for that perfect tang. Each bite is rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying — the ultimate cozy meal for a cold day or when you just need a little extra warmth.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Cuisines: American

• Course: Soup / Main Course

• Servings: 6

• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Equipment

To prepare this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe, you’ll need the following:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven

• Cutting board and knife

• Wooden spoon or ladle

• Potato masher or immersion blender

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Ladle for serving

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (optional but highly recommended):

• Extra cheddar cheese, shredded

• Chopped green onions

• Crispy bacon bits

• Sour cream dollop

• Chives or parsley for a fresh finish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Begin by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot — this will add incredible flavor to your soup base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook in the bacon drippings for about 3–4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The aroma at this point will be irresistible — this is where the flavor begins to build.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Add the butter to the pot, and once melted, sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for about 1–2 minutes to create a roux — this will help thicken the soup later. Make sure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps before moving on.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Potatoes

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid clumps. Add the diced potatoes, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the potatoes simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 5: Mash or Blend the Soup

Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash some of them directly in the pot for a thicker texture. For an even creamier soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend about half of the mixture, leaving some chunks for that rustic feel.

Step 6: Add Dairy and Seasonings

Stir in the milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Keep the heat on low and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent curdling of the dairy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes — crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Sprinkle a pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika for a little extra kick.

Nutrition Facts

Tips for the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best due to their creamy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t mash as smoothly.

2. Don’t Skip the Bacon Drippings: They add a smoky depth that elevates the entire flavor profile.

3. For a Lighter Version: Substitute heavy cream with milk or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative without sacrificing creaminess.

4. Make it Vegetarian: Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of that smoky flavor.

5. Thicker or Thinner Texture: Adjust the consistency by adding more broth for a thinner soup or simmering longer for a thicker version

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe combines all the familiar flavors of your favorite comfort food into one soul-warming dish. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and melty cheese creates a luxurious, velvety texture that’s both rich and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something warm on a chilly evening, this soup hits every note.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a fan of hearty soups that deliver both flavor and nostalgia, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is a must-try. It’s a creamy, satisfying bowl of goodness that warms the body and the soul. Perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or make-ahead lunches, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite.