Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Creamy Delight You’ll Love!

Name: Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A Creamy Delight You'll Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on June 22, 2025

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Introduction to Loaded Baked Potato Soup

As the days grow shorter and the evenings chillier, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup to wrap you in comfort. This creamy delight is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy moms and professionals, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal solution for those hectic weeknights. Imagine gathering your loved ones around the table, sharing stories over this hearty soup. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a game-changer for your dinner routine. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. The rich, creamy texture and savory flavors will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for a creamy soup. They break down beautifully, giving the soup its hearty texture.
Butter: A must for that rich flavor. It adds a lovely depth to the soup and helps sauté the potatoes.
All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the soup, creating that luscious, creamy consistency we all love.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Use chicken broth for a savory kick or vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian option.
Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can substitute with low-fat milk or a non-dairy alternative if you prefer.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This is where the “loaded” part comes in! It melts beautifully, adding flavor and richness.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess, making each spoonful delightful.
Cooked Bacon: Crumbled bacon brings a smoky flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly. You can skip this for a vegetarian version.
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color, making your soup visually appealing.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients elevate the flavors of the soup.

For those who love to experiment, feel free to add more toppings like extra cheese, croutons, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a little kick. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. As it melts, the rich aroma fills the kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful cooking experience. Make sure to keep an eye on it; you want it melted, not browned!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Once the butter is melted, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir them around for about 5 minutes. This step helps to coat the potatoes in that buttery goodness, enhancing their flavor. You’ll see them start to soften, which is exactly what you want!

Step 3: Add Flour

Next, it’s time to stir in the flour. Cook it for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which is essential for thickening your soup. The mixture will start to bubble, and that’s a good sign that you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Incorporate Broth

Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring continuously. This helps to prevent lumps from forming. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take just a few minutes. You’ll notice the soup starting to come together beautifully!

Step 5: Pour in Milk

Now, pour in the milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the creaminess comes into play. Stir occasionally, and watch as the soup transforms into a luscious, velvety delight. It’s hard not to sneak a taste at this point!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Sour Cream

Time to add the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Stir in half of the crumbled bacon as well. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a rich and creamy texture. The flavors meld together, making your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 7: Season and Serve

Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, garnished with the remaining bacon and a sprinkle of green onions. Each bowl is a masterpiece, ready to warm hearts and fill bellies. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Don’t rush the simmering process; it allows flavors to develop beautifully.
For extra creaminess, use a hand blender to puree a portion of the soup.
Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or milk, depending on your preference.
Experiment with toppings like jalapeños or avocado for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

Large Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for cooking the soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and preventing the soup from sticking.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring ingredients accurately.
Blender (optional): Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or a regular blender for pureeing.

Variations of Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra veggies like carrots or celery for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy twist that will warm you up!
Cheesy Broccoli: Stir in some steamed broccoli florets along with the cheese for a nutritious boost and a pop of color.
Loaded with Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale just before serving for a healthy addition that complements the creamy soup.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Wine: A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in rustic bowls and garnish with extra cheese and green onions for a pop of color.

FAQs about Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Loaded Baked Potato Soup, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. It will thicken just as beautifully!

Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave out the dairy ingredients like milk and sour cream before freezing. Add them in when you reheat the soup for the best texture.

What can I use instead of bacon?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon entirely or use crispy chickpeas or tempeh for a similar crunch without the meat.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to dig in!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings families together. The creamy texture and rich flavors create a warm embrace on chilly nights. I love how this recipe is not only easy to make but also allows for creativity with toppings and variations. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, and let’s create some delicious memories together!