A Creamy, Comforting Classic for Any Occasion

Nothing warms you up on a chilly day like a hearty bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Packed with crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and a generous topping of cheddar cheese, this soup is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a starter, it’s sure to bring smiles to the table.

Let’s dive into the steps to create this cozy dish, complete with tips to make it perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The perfect blend of flavors and textures.
• Easy to Make: Requires just one pot and simple ingredients.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Adjust toppings to suit everyone’s taste.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ingredient	Quantity
Bacon (chopped)	6 slices
White onion (finely diced)	1/2
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves
All-purpose flour	1/4 cup
Chicken broth or stock	2 cups
Whole milk	2 cups
Red or Yukon gold potatoes	2 lbs (peeled, cubed)
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Fresh chives (chopped)	1/4 cup
Kosher salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes.
2. Set aside while preparing the soup base.

2. Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy.
3. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. Add diced onions to the bacon fat and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Whisk to combine, forming a thick paste.
2. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

5. Add Liquids and Potatoes

1. Gradually whisk in chicken stock and milk, a little at a time, to create a smooth mixture.
2. Add the cubed potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

6. Mash and Thicken

1. Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the cooked potatoes in the pot. This will thicken the soup while leaving some chunks for texture.

7. Add Cheese, Sour Cream, and Bacon

1. Remove the pot from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped chives, and half of the crispy bacon.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon.
2. Garnish with extra cheese, sour cream, and chives if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Choose the Right Potatoes

• Yukon gold or red potatoes provide a creamy texture without becoming mushy.

Control the Thickness

• Mash more potatoes for a thicker soup or add a splash of chicken stock for a thinner consistency.

Keep the Bacon Crispy

• Add the bacon just before serving to maintain its crunch.

Avoid Boiling the Milk

• Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to prevent the milk from scorching.

Make It Lighter

• Substitute whole milk with 2% milk and use turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	400
Protein	15g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	750mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Potato?

Yes! Russet potatoes work well, but they may create a thicker consistency as they break down more during cooking.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I Freeze This Soup?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly due to the milk and potatoes. For best results, freeze before adding the cheese and sour cream, then stir them in after reheating.

4. What Other Toppings Can I Add?

Try green onions, diced jalapeños, croutons, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

5. Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the bacon, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

6. How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish	Why It Works
Crusty bread	Perfect for dipping
Green salad	Adds a refreshing contrast
Roasted vegetables	Enhances the meal’s heartiness
Grilled cheese sandwich	A classic pairing

Customizing Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This soup is versatile and can be tailored to your preferences:

• Make It Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
• Boost the Veggies: Include carrots, celery, or corn.
• Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or leftover ham.
• Use Alternative Dairy: Try coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Why This Recipe Works

Loaded with flavor and simple to make, Loaded Baked Potato Soup hits all the right notes. It’s creamy, savory, and customizable, making it a go-to recipe for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Plus, the one-pot approach keeps cleanup easy, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

Are you ready to wow your taste buds with this incredible soup? Gather your ingredients, grab your pot, and start cooking. Once you try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup, it’ll quickly become a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

Get creative, make it your own, and enjoy every creamy, delicious spoonful!

Print