Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is exactly what you need. This rich and creamy soup is packed with tender potatoes, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and fresh chives, combining all the best flavors of a classic baked potato in vibrant soup form. Every spoonful delivers that perfect balance of creamy texture with bursts of savory goodness, making it an irresistible meal any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup. From the creamy milk that forms the base to the crispy bacon bits that add texture, every element contributes to a harmonious flavor and satisfying mouthfeel.
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes provide hearty body and that signature baked potato taste.
- Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Butter: Used for cooking the onions and creating a rich roux.
- Flour: Helps thicken the soup for a luscious, creamy consistency.
- Milk: The silky base that brings everything together smoothly.
- Cheddar Cheese: Offers sharp, melty richness that’s essential for a loaded potato vibe.
- Cooked Bacon: Adds smoky, crispy pockets of flavor throughout the soup.
- Salt and Pepper: To season perfectly and highlight all the tasty ingredients.
- Chives: Fresh chives bring a bright, oniony finish and pretty green color.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once sizzling, add the chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent. This step is key because it builds the savory foundation your soup needs.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and stir continuously for about one minute. This cooks out the raw flour taste and begins thickening the soup base for that creamy texture.
Step 3: Add the Milk and Potatoes
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps from forming, then toss in the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened nicely.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Bacon
Lower the heat and add the cheddar cheese and cooked bacon pieces, stirring until the cheese melts fully and the bacon is evenly distributed. This final touch turns the soup into an indulgent, flavor-packed delight.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Garnishes
Top your Loaded Baked Potato Soup with a scatter of fresh chives for a pop of color and fresh onion flavor. You can also add extra crispy bacon, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheese if you want to make it even more decadent.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crunchy green salad or warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop. A side of roasted vegetables or simple garlic bread are also fantastic companions for a cozy meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or garnish with some diced avocado for a creamy contrast. You can also sprinkle a little smoked paprika or cracked black pepper on top to elevate the presentation and add a subtle smoky kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld and improve a bit after a day, making it an excellent make-ahead option.
Freezing
This soup doesn’t freeze perfectly due to the dairy and potatoes, which can separate and become grainy after thawing. For best results, enjoy within a few days fresh from the fridge.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat while stirring often. You may want to add a splash of milk to loosen the texture if it thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can try sharp white cheddar, smoked gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist on your Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for sautéing. Adding smoked paprika can help provide a smoky flavor without the meat.
What’s the best potato to use?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold up well in soup and have that great fluffy texture when cooked, perfect for recreating that baked potato feel.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the milk with a creamy plant-based milk like oat or cashew, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How thick should the soup be when it’s done?
The soup should be thick and creamy but easily scoopable with a spoon. It shouldn’t be watery or runny, nor overly thick like mashed potatoes – just the right comforting consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a forever favorite that brings cozy comfort and incredible flavor to your table effortlessly. Give it a try on a chilly day or whenever you need a satisfying, homemade meal that feels like it was made with love. Once you taste this creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled delight, it’s bound to become your go-to soup to warm the soul.
