Nothing warms the soul like a bowl of hearty, comforting soup on a chilly evening. The Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe combines creamy textures, crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and a touch of chives to create a bowl of pure comfort. Perfect for cozy dinners or weeknight meals, this soup hits all the right notes—rich, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. By following this recipe, you can recreate restaurant-quality baked potato soup right at home, with the added bonus of controlling ingredients for maximum flavor and nutrition.
Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for meal preps, this Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness, making it a staple in your comfort food repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
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Rich and Creamy Flavor – The combination of heavy cream and cheddar cheese creates a luscious, velvety texture.
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Hearty and Filling – Loaded with diced russet potatoes and bacon, this soup doubles as a meal.
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Customizable Toppings – Sour cream, green onions, and extra cheese allow for personalization.
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Quick Weeknight Dinner – Prep and cooking time under an hour.
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Budget-Friendly Comfort Food – Uses simple, affordable ingredients with big flavor payoff.
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Kid-Friendly – Cheesy, creamy, and flavorful, perfect for picky eaters.
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Versatile – Can be made vegetarian by omitting bacon and using vegetable broth.
Ingredients
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, using high-quality ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need:
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6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced – the starchy potatoes make the soup thick and creamy.
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1 large onion, finely chopped – adds a natural sweetness.
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4 cloves of garlic, minced – enhances the savory base.
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8 slices of bacon, diced – for smoky, crispy flavor.
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4 cups chicken broth – provides a rich and savory foundation.
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2 cups heavy cream – gives the soup its creamy, indulgent texture.
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – melts perfectly for cheesy goodness.
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1/2 cup sour cream – adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
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4 green onions, thinly sliced – for a fresh, mild bite.
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Salt and pepper to taste – enhances all flavors.
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2 tablespoons butter – rounds out the flavor and adds richness.
Substitution Tips:
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Use turkey bacon or smoked sausage for a leaner protein.
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Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter soup.
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Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Peel and dice potatoes into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Chop the onions and mince the garlic to release their aroma and flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large soup pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. This fat will enhance the soup’s flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add butter to the pan with bacon fat. Sauté onions until translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
Add diced potatoes to the pan and toss with onion, garlic, and fat. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 5: Blend and Add Cream
For a creamier soup, mash a few potato pieces or use an immersion blender for a smoother consistency. Stir in heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar. Cook until the cheese melts completely.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in cooked bacon, and garnish with green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite bread or crackers.
Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
How Do You Make Potato Soup Creamy Without Flour?
The creaminess comes from heavy cream and partially mashed potatoes, which naturally thicken the soup without needing flour or cornstarch.
Can You Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring to maintain creaminess.
Can I Freeze Baked Potato Soup?
Yes, but omit sour cream and cheese when freezing. Add them when reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Expert Advice:
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Always add cheese slowly over low heat to prevent clumping.
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Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; potatoes can absorb salt.
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Use fresh green onions for garnish—they brighten up the flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
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Serve in a bread bowl for a fun, rustic presentation.
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Pair with a crisp salad, like Caesar or mixed greens, for balance.
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Add extra toppings: crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, sour cream, or chives.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1.5 cups)
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Calories: 350 kcal
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Protein: 12g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 13g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 780mg
Daily Values:
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Vitamin A: 10%
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Vitamin C: 25%
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Calcium: 20%
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Iron: 8%
Storage & Leftovers
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months (add cheese and sour cream when reheating).
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Reheating: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
What Cheese Works Best?
Sharp cheddar provides rich flavor, but a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works beautifully for creaminess.
How Can I Thicken Potato Soup Naturally?
Mash a few potatoes in the soup or simmer longer to reduce liquid. Cream also helps thicken naturally.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Yes! Crispy onions, chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños can add extra flavor and texture.
Variations
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Bacon-Free Version: Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
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Vegan Version: Replace cream with coconut milk, cheese with vegan cheddar, and use vegetable broth.
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Extra Cheesy: Double the cheese and add cream cheese for a super rich, creamy texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
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Slow Cooker Method: Cook all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 4–6 hours. Blend partially for smooth texture.
Conclusion
The Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of warmth, comfort, and indulgence. Every spoonful delivers creamy, cheesy, and smoky satisfaction that will keep your family coming back for more. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup is guaranteed to impress.