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There’s a certain warmth that fills the air when you whip up a comforting bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. I’ll never forget the first time I made it—cloudy skies outside and the delightful smell of crispy bacon wafting through my kitchen. This recipe combines tender potatoes with the creamy goodness of cheese and sour cream, all topped with bits of bacon and fresh chives for that added burst of flavor.

Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re simply craving a taste of home, this soup is a welcome departure from mundane takeout options. It delights your senses and pleases even the pickiest of eaters, making it a true family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a hearty dish that warms your heart—and your stomach. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and transform your weeknight meals into something special!

Why is Loaded Baked Potato Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting warmth: This soup wraps you in cozy flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, it’s accessible for home cooks of all levels.
Packed with flavor: The blend of creamy cheeses, smoky bacon, and hearty potatoes creates a taste explosion.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Both kids and adults rave about this dish, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile additions: Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or switch up the cheese for a personal twist.
Elevate your weeknight meals by whipping up this delightful recipe!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Potatoes – scrubbed for that earthy flavor that truly shines.
• Unsalted butter – adds a rich creaminess to the soup.
• Garlic cloves – minced for that aromatic touch that complements the bacon.
• Yellow onion – brings sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the soup, giving it a comforting texture.
• Low fat milk – creates a silky consistency without being overly heavy.
• Half and half – adds extra creaminess and richness.
• Chicken stock – enhances the soup’s savory notes, making it more satisfying.
• Salt and garlic salt – elevates flavor while allowing for personal taste adjustments.
• Black pepper – offers a subtle spice that balances the creaminess.

For the Cheesy Goodness
• Mild cheddar cheese – melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture.
• Sharp cheddar cheese – packs a punch of flavor for that extra zing.
• Sour cream – provides a tangy finish that brings everything together.

For the Garnish
• Bacon slices – cooked to crisp perfection and crumbled for a delightful crunch.
• Fresh chives – chopped to sprinkle on top, adding freshness and color.

Gather these ingredients to create your Loaded Baked Potato Soup, and get ready for a culinary experience that warms the heart!

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Prepare the Potatoes: Pierce the scrubbed potatoes several times with a fork. Microwave them for 12 to 15 minutes until tender. Allow them to cool, then halve and remove the skins, cutting into chunks.
Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until it’s crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Save up to 1 tablespoon of bacon fat, discarding the rest, and crumble the cooled bacon into small pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the reserved bacon fat, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion is tender and fragrant.
Make the Roux: Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes until it’s incorporated and lightly golden.
Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the low-fat milk and half-and-half until smooth. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while whisking. Bring the mixture to a light simmer, then season with salt, garlic salt, and black pepper. Maintain a gentle simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Ingredients: If desired, reserve 1/4 cup each of bacon and cheese for garnish. Stir in the rest of the cheese, bacon, and sour cream, then remove from heat. Add the potato chunks, breaking them down into your preferred texture.
Serve Warm: Ladle the Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls, topping with your reserved cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh chives for that delicious finishing touch.

Optional: Add a dollop of extra sour cream for a creamy finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

When you’re savoring a warm bowl of creamy potato goodness, every side can turn your meal into a heartwarming experience.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchiness complements the smooth, creamy soup, making every bite an adventure for your taste buds.
Perfect for dipping, the rich garlic flavor enhances the overall experience, inviting you to come back for more.
Simple Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens balances the richness of the soup, adding a refreshing crunch.
Toss in seasonal vegetables and a light vinaigrette to elevate this pairing, brightening up your meal beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Light and nutritious, steamed broccoli brings a bright color and a slight bite, enhancing the comforting flavors of the soup.
The earthy taste of broccoli creates a delightful contrast, making your meal feel wholesome and satisfying.
Savory Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread offers a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.
Each bite envelops your senses in a buttery embrace, leaving you craving that comforting taste of home.
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: This crispy, savory side echoes the bacon in the soup while providing a fresh twist.
The savory crunch of the bacon complements the souping experience while the asparagus adds a gourmet touch.
Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm, sweet apple crisp; the cinnamon flavor pairs effortlessly with the heartiness of the soup.
With its crunchy topping and juicy filling, it’s a warm hug in dessert form, leaving your guests satisfied and happy.
Chilled Sweet Tea: For a refreshing beverage, chilled sweet tea balances the soup’s richness, making for a delightful duo.
The floral notes of the tea dance with the savory flavors, creating a perfect pairing, sip after sip.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finally, a classic dessert like chocolate chip cookies will satisfy your sweet cravings after the savory soup.
Freshly baked, their gooeyness cozies up perfectly after that comforting bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

Expert Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Perfect Potato Prep: Make sure to pierce the potatoes deeply before microwaving; this ensures they cook evenly and steam properly.
Crisp Bacon Magic: Cook the bacon until it’s really crisp; this will add that necessary texture and flavor punch in your Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Whisk Wisely: When adding flour, whisk steadily to avoid lumps. This ensures a smooth and creamy soup base, enhancing the overall texture.
Simmer Time: Keep an eye on the simmering time—too long can thicken the soup excessively without flavor enhancement. Aim for 5 to 7 minutes.
Garnish Galore: Customize your toppings! Extra cheese, bacon bits, or even a splash of hot sauce can elevate your Loaded Baked Potato Soup to new delicious heights.
Taste Test: Always taste as you go, adjusting salt and garlic salt to find the perfect balance for your palate.

How to Store and Freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious upon reheating.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock if the soup has thickened too much.

Refrigeration Tips: If storing for a few days, consider keeping crispy bacon separate until serving to maintain its crunch.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this warming soup, adding your own personal twist!

Dairy-Free: Swap the milk and half-and-half for almond or coconut milk for a lighter version.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and vegan sour cream to create a completely meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give your soup a delightful heat.
Chunky Texture: For added texture, mix in some roasted vegetables like carrots or broccoli to balance the flavors.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that elevates the soup’s depth.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for an exciting melt that complements the potatoes.
Extra Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or turkey for an added protein boost, making it a heartier meal.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a depth of flavor that adds a touch of sophistication.

With these variations, you can easily make this lovingly crafted soup fit your tastes and needs!

Make Ahead Options

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the soup base up to 3 days in advance by cooking the potatoes and making the roux without adding the dairy or potatoes. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. On the day you plan to serve, reheat the soup base over medium heat, adding in the milk, half-and-half, chicken stock, and potato chunks. Finish by incorporating the cheeses, bacon, and sour cream for that creamy, decadent taste you love. This way, you’ll have a homemade comfort food ready to enjoy with minimal last-minute effort!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best potatoes for Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Look for Russet potatoes or Yukon Golds; their starchy textures create that delightful creaminess. Choose firm potatoes without dark spots or bruises for the best results.

What’s the best way to store Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the fridge, so it retains its creamy texture. Give it a good stir when you reheat it to bring back that luscious consistency!

Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Very! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it’s too thick.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Loaded Baked Potato Soup to be thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a bit of chicken stock or low-fat milk while reheating. Start with a little—about 1/4 cup—and mix until you reach your desired consistency. It’s easy to adjust!

Is this soup suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re worried about gluten allergies, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. You can also omit or substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or a vegetarian option. For lactose intolerance, using lactose-free milk and cheese can work well, too. Always check ingredient labels to make it suitable for your dietary needs.

How can I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add toppings like crispy shallots, jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms for an extra flavor blast. You can even experiment with different cheese blends—pepper jack for some spice or Gouda for a smoky twist. Just have fun!