Loaded baked potato soup is the kind of cozy, heart-warming dish that turns an ordinary evening into pure comfort. Thick, creamy, and packed with flavor, this soup brings all the goodness of a classic baked potato right into a bowl. With toppings like cheese, bacon, and chives, it becomes a meal that everyone loves. Here’s how to create a rich, satisfying version at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, baked and diced
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Preparing the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes before cutting them into small cubes for even cooking. Smaller pieces soften quickly and blend more smoothly into the soup. For extra flavor, you can also bake one potato whole and crumble it in later for a more “loaded” texture.
Simmer the potatoes gently until they become fork-tender but not mushy. This helps the soup maintain body while still delivering a creamy finish. As the potatoes cook, their starch naturally thickens the broth and enhances the richness.
Once cooked, set the potatoes aside but keep the cooking water, as it adds additional flavor. This water can be used later to adjust the thickness of your soup. It’s a simple trick that prevents waste and boosts taste.
Building the Flavor Base
Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot until crispy and fragrant. The rendered fat becomes a flavorful foundation for the rest of the soup. After removing the bacon, use the same pot to sauté onions and garlic, creating a deep, savory aroma.
Add butter and flour to form a smooth roux that thickens the soup beautifully. Take care to cook the roux slowly so the flour taste disappears and the mixture becomes golden. This stage ensures a velvety texture once the liquid is added.
Gradually pour in the broth and milk while whisking to maintain smoothness. The mixture will thicken as it heats, developing a luxurious base. This is where the soup begins to transform into something irresistibly rich and creamy.
Bringing It All Together
Once your base is smooth, add the tender potatoes back into the pot. Stir gently so they blend while still keeping small pieces intact for texture. The contrast between soft potato chunks and creamy broth creates the classic loaded potato feel.
Next, stir in cheddar cheese and sour cream, allowing them to melt slowly. These ingredients elevate the soup with tanginess and depth, giving each spoonful a comforting richness. The soup becomes thicker, creamier, and noticeably more indulgent.
Season with salt, pepper, and any spices you enjoy, such as paprika or garlic powder. Taste as you go to balance the flavors. Proper seasoning brings out the subtleties of the cheese, potatoes, and onion, making the soup truly satisfying.
Topping Like a Loaded Potato
A loaded baked potato isn’t complete without toppings, and the same goes for this soup. Crumble the crispy bacon over each bowl to add smoky crunch. Its saltiness perfectly complements the creamy base.
Sprinkle freshly shredded cheddar on top so it melts slightly into the hot soup. This extra layer of cheese enhances both flavor and comfort. A little goes a long way, but cheese lovers can certainly add more.
Finish with a handful of chives or green onions for color and freshness. Their mild sharpness brightens the richness of the soup and balances its creamy texture. These toppings give your meal that authentic loaded potato charm.
Making It Lighter Without Losing Flavor
If you prefer a lighter version, small adjustments can keep the soup delicious while reducing richness. Using milk instead of heavy cream softens the calorie load yet still maintains creaminess. Blending half the soup and leaving the rest chunky also creates thickness without added fat.
You can replace some cheese or sour cream with Greek yogurt for protein and tanginess. This substitution works well while keeping the soup creamy and satisfying. It’s a simple way to enjoy comfort food more often.
Leaning into herbs, spices, and well-cooked onions adds flavor naturally without relying on extra butter. These techniques ensure the soup stays flavorful and comforting while feeling a bit lighter on the stomach.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will thicken overnight, so adding a splash of milk or broth when reheating helps restore its creamy texture. Warm it slowly on the stove to avoid curdling the dairy.
Potato soups freeze moderately well, though the texture may change slightly. If freezing, allow the soup to cool completely and portion it into smaller containers. When reheating, whisk gently to bring the smoothness back.
Leftover soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a quick, comforting meal. It’s a handy dish to keep ready for busy evenings.
Conclusion
Loaded baked potato soup is the kind of homemade comfort that never goes out of style. Creamy, rich, and customizable, it brings warmth and flavor to any day. With the right toppings and simple ingredients, it becomes a dish everyone looks forward to. Whether you enjoy it thick and decadent or make it lighter, it remains a cozy classic worth repeating. Let each spoonful remind you how satisfying simple comfort food can be.
