Loaded Baked Potato Soup

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food to warm your soul, look no further than this creamy, hearty Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Packed with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives, this soup captures all the flavors you love in a baked potato but with the cozy, spoon-able goodness you crave during colder days. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe promises both simplicity and indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of creamy textures and cheesy flavor makes every spoonful delightfully satisfying.
• Loaded with Flavor: Each ingredient adds a punch, from smoky bacon to savory potatoes and fresh chives.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you’ll have comfort food on the table without stress.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust toppings and mix-ins to fit dietary needs or family preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether a weeknight meal or weekend gathering, this soup fits beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem familiar, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors that make this Loaded Baked Potato Soup truly special.

• Russet Potatoes: The starchy spuds provide the perfect base for thick, creamy texture.
• Crispy Bacon: Adds smoky, crunchy contrast and deep savory notes.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully for rich flavor and gooey consistency.
• Chives: Freshness and color to brighten each bowl.
• Butter: Creates a smooth base and enhances overall flavor.
• Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: Injects a subtle aromatic warmth.
• Chicken Broth: Builds savory depth without overpowering richness.
• Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: For velvety smoothness and richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential to season perfectly.

Variations for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

One of the best things about this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is how easy it is to make your own. Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your tastes or dietary needs without losing that classic cozy feel.

• Vegetarian Twist: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky hint.
• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy with plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, and use vegetable broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or even corn for additional texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for heat.
• Cheese Blends: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a more complex cheese flavor.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Veggies

Peel and dice the russet potatoes into bite-sized chunks for even cooking. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so they’re ready to soften in the pot later.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a large pot until crispy, then remove and set aside on paper towels to drain. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pot for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onions and garlic to the bacon fat and sauté until translucent and fragrant, laying the flavorful foundation of your soup.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced potatoes and chicken broth, bringing everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Blend for Creamy Texture

Using an immersion blender, pulse the soup gently to create a creamy but slightly chunky texture, or blend half and leave the rest chunky, depending on your preference.

Step 6: Stir in Dairy and Cheese

Lower the heat and slowly add the butter, cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything melts into a smooth, velvety soup.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then top with crispy bacon pieces and chopped chives for that final loaded touch.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy nature delivers the best creamy texture in the soup.
• Don’t Overblend: Keep some potato chunks for texture—fully pureed soup loses that beloved bite.
• Add Cheese Slowly: Stir in cheese off the heat to avoid curdling or graininess.
• Keep It Warm: Use low heat to prevent the soup from scorching on the bottom.
• Fresh Chives: Add right before serving to maintain their bright color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Garnishes

Classic garnishes like crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, sour cream dollops, and fresh chives elevate the soup’s flavor and add inviting textures and colors, making every bowl enticing.

Side Dishes

Pair your Loaded Baked Potato Soup with a crisp green salad, warm crusty bread, or garlic dinner rolls to balance the meal with contrasting textures and fresh bursts.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the soup in hollowed-out mini baked potatoes or bread bowls to wow guests and make the experience extra special and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 3–4 days, making it great for quick meals.

Freezing

This soup freezes well; just be sure to leave out any fresh garnishes and add them after reheating. Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months for future comfort food cravings.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use red potatoes instead of russet?

While you can substitute red potatoes, russets provide the ideal starchy texture for a creamy soup, so the consistency may be slightly different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is naturally gluten-free, but always check your broth and other packaged ingredients to confirm.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Absolutely. Replace butter, cream, and cheese with plant-based alternatives to maintain creaminess and flavor without dairy.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, stirring well before reheating.

How can I make this soup thicker?

For thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or simmer the soup longer to evaporate excess liquid before adding cream and cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a heartwarming, delicious crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. With its perfect blend of creamy potatoes, sharp cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to become your go-to comfort dish. Don’t wait for a chilly day to dive into this cozy classic—give it a try and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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