Loaded Baked Potato Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe

Name: Loaded Baked Potato Soup: 1 Amazing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium Potatoes (Microwave or leftover roasted for flavor); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with olive oil); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots work for a milder flavor); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced, fresh cloves recommended); 6 slices Bacon (Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative); 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free flour); 1 cup Low-Fat Milk (Unsweetened almond milk works too); 1 cup Half and Half (Coconut cream is a dairy-free option); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Use vegetable stock for vegetarian option); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt (Season to taste); 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese (Add sharp cheddar for depth); 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Vegan cheese for dairy-free); 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt for healthier option); 1 bunch Fresh Chives (Green onions or parsley for garnish)

by Manar Jota

September 23, 2025

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Loaded Baked Potato Soup has a way of making everything feel cozy and right, and I’ve discovered the absolute best way to capture that iconic flavor in a bowl. It reminds me of chilly evenings growing up, when Mom would whip up a hearty pot of this creamy goodness, and the whole house would fill with the irresistible aroma of bacon and cheese. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share this easy loaded baked potato soup recipe with you! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This loaded potato soup recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: It tastes just like your favorite loaded baked potato, packed with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a hint of sour cream.
Super Quick: You can whip up this entire loaded potato soup recipe in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, common ingredients that are kind to your wallet.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters adore this hearty and comforting dish.
Customizable: Easily adjust toppings and ingredients to suit your taste.
Hearty & Filling: It’s a satisfying meal that will keep you full.
Comfort in a Bowl: This soup is pure comfort food, perfect for any occasion.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients

Gathering these loaded baked potato soup ingredients is the first step to pure comfort. You’ll need:

4 medium Potatoes – I like using Russets, but leftover roasted potatoes work wonders for extra flavor.
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter – This helps sauté our aromatics beautifully.
1 medium Yellow Onion, diced – For that essential savory base.
2 cloves Garlic, minced – Fresh garlic always makes a difference!
6 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled – The star of the show for that irresistible smoky crunch.
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour – This creates our roux, thickening the soup to a lovely creamy consistency.
1 cup Low-Fat Milk – Adds creaminess without being too heavy.
1 cup Half and Half – For that extra rich and velvety texture.
4 cups Chicken Stock – The liquid gold that forms the soup’s base.
1 teaspoon Salt – Or to your taste, as bacon and cheese add saltiness.
1 teaspoon Garlic Salt – An extra punch of garlic flavor.
1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy goodness.
1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded – For a deeper, more complex cheese flavor.
1 cup Sour Cream – Stirred in at the end for tang and creaminess.
1 bunch Fresh Chives, chopped – The perfect fresh, oniony garnish.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Let’s dive into how to make this amazing loaded baked potato soup! It’s surprisingly simple and comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is just heavenly.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes. Scrub your potatoes clean, then prick them a few times with a fork. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cook on high for about 10 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. This is a fantastic shortcut to get that tender potato texture without a long bake time.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon. While the potatoes are microwaving, chop your bacon into pieces. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels. Save about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor!
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics. Add the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or the reserved bacon grease) to the pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll start to smell that wonderful savory aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Create the Roux. Sprinkle the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir constantly for about 1 minute. This mixture, called a roux, is key to thickening our soup and making it wonderfully creamy.
Step 5: Add the Liquids. Gradually whisk in the 1 cup low-fat milk, then the 1 cup half and half, followed by the 4 cups chicken stock. Keep whisking to ensure no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This is where how to make loaded baked potato soup really starts to take shape.
Step 6: Incorporate Potatoes and Seasonings. Once the potatoes are tender, carefully dice or mash them (leaving some skins on adds great texture!). Add the prepared potatoes to the simmering soup. Stir in the 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon garlic salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – remember, the bacon and cheese will add more saltiness later.
Step 7: Melt the Cheeses. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded mild cheddar and sharp cheddar cheeses, a handful at a time, stirring until each addition is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. This step makes it a truly creamy loaded baked potato soup.
Step 8: Finish and Serve. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1 cup sour cream until well combined. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish generously with the crumbled bacon and freshly chopped chives. Enjoy this fantastic homemade loaded baked potato soup!

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Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? Here are my go-to tips for making the absolute best loaded baked potato soup:

Microwave Potatoes for Speed: For a quick soup, microwaving potatoes is a game-changer. Just scrub them, prick with a fork, and cook until tender.
Don’t Skip the Roux: That little bit of flour cooked with butter is crucial for achieving a wonderfully thick and creamy texture without being gloopy.
Taste and Adjust: Bacon and cheese bring a lot of salt. Always taste your soup before adding extra salt, especially after the cheese is melted.
Fresh Herbs are Key: While chives are classic, don’t underestimate the power of fresh parsley or even a sprig of thyme added during simmering for an extra layer of flavor.

What’s the secret to perfect loaded baked potato soup?

The real secret to a perfect loaded baked potato soup lies in a combination of things: using starchy potatoes (like Russets) for that classic flavor, building a good roux for creaminess, and not overcooking the dairy. Getting that balance of bacon, cheese, and potato is pure magic! For more culinary inspiration, check out our recipes.

Can I make loaded baked potato soup ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prep most of the soup base (potatoes, aromatics, stock, and thickeners) a day in advance. Just store it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the base, then stir in the cheese and sour cream right before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with loaded baked potato soup?

A common pitfall is a grainy or separated soup. This often happens from overheating the dairy or cheese. Cook over low heat and stir gently. Another mistake is adding too much salt too early. Remember that bacon and cheese are salty, so season in stages. You can learn more about proper cooking techniques on sites like Food Network.

Best Ways to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides for a truly comforting meal. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A crusty bread or some buttered dinner rolls are also perfect for soaking up every last drop of this delicious soup.

This comfort food potato soup is fantastic on its own, but consider adding a side of cornbread for a classic pairing. It’s also wonderful with a simple side salad to balance the richness. For a truly indulgent meal, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich – talk about a flavor explosion! If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also like our ground beef zucchini casserole.

Nutrition Facts for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Understanding the loaded baked potato soup calories helps you fit this comforting dish into your meal plan. Per serving, this hearty soup offers a satisfying balance:

Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 17 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 2 g
Protein: 12 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Cholesterol: 40 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on nutritional data, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

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How to Store and Reheat Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Properly storing and reheating your loaded baked potato soup ensures it tastes just as delicious the next day, or even months later! After cooking, let the soup cool down for about 30-60 minutes at room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria. For refrigeration, store the soup in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep this hearty soup for longer, it freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t scorch. If the soup seems too thick after storage, you can always thin it out with a splash of milk or chicken broth. For a faster reheat, you can use the microwave. Just be sure to stir it halfway through the heating process to ensure even temperature distribution. Remember, for the best texture, it’s often recommended to stir in the sour cream and cheese just before serving after reheating. If you’re looking for other comforting recipes, consider our Indian butter chicken recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Baked Potato Soup

What is loaded baked potato soup?

Loaded baked potato soup is a creamy, hearty soup that aims to capture all the delicious flavors of a fully loaded baked potato. Think tender potatoes, savory bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, all simmered together in a rich, comforting broth. It’s a popular dish because it’s incredibly satisfying and tastes like a decadent treat.

Why is loaded baked potato soup popular?

Its popularity stems from its incredible comfort factor and familiar flavors. It takes a beloved dish – the loaded baked potato – and transforms it into a warming, easy-to-eat soup. It’s perfect for chilly evenings and offers a robust, satisfying meal that appeals to almost everyone, making it a go-to for families and gatherings. For more family-friendly meals, explore our Chinese style mango chicken stir fry.

Can I make loaded baked potato soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock and use vegetarian bacon. To make it vegan, use vegetable stock, vegan butter, vegan bacon, omit the cheese or use a good quality vegan cheddar, and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free sour cream alternative or a cashew-based cream. It’s surprisingly easy to adapt this loaded potato soup recipe.

Can I add other vegetables to my loaded baked potato soup?

Yes, you can! While the classic recipe is fantastic, feel free to add other vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition. Sautéed carrots, celery, or even some corn can be added along with the onions. Some people also like to add a bit of broccoli or spinach towards the end of cooking for extra greens.

Variations of Loaded Baked Potato Soup You Can Try

This versatile loaded baked potato soup is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon: While our main recipe includes bacon as a topping, you can also cook the bacon first, reserve some of the flavorful grease, and use it to sauté your onions and garlic for an even deeper bacon flavor throughout the soup.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup Without Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option or want to avoid dairy, you can achieve a wonderfully creamy texture without heavy cream or half-and-half. Simply use more milk and perhaps a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) stirred in at the end to thicken.
Vegetarian Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Making this soup vegetarian is a breeze! Swap the chicken stock for a rich vegetable stock, and use a plant-based bacon alternative or skip it altogether. Ensure your cheese and sour cream are also vegetarian-friendly if needed.
Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the soup base for a little kick that complements the creamy, cheesy flavors beautifully. For another flavorful dish, try our coconut chicken meatballs.