When the weather calls for something warm and comforting, Loaded Potato Soup is like a big hug in a bowl. Creamy, hearty, and packed with all the flavors you’d expect from a fully loaded baked potato, this soup is pure comfort food at its best. Think silky potato base, savory bacon, melty cheese, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream—every spoonful is a little piece of heaven.

It’s the kind of recipe that works just as well for a cozy weeknight dinner as it does for serving a crowd. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and mix-ins, making it a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato Soup

• Pure comfort—rich, creamy, and filling.
• Customizable—load it up with your favorite toppings.
• One-pot wonder—minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Family favorite—perfect for kids and adults alike.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best creamy texture.
• Mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for thickness, but leave some chunks for bite.
• Cook bacon until crispy and reserve some for topping—it adds crunch and flavor.
• Add the cheese off the heat so it melts smoothly without clumping.

Ingredients

1. 6 slices bacon, diced
2. 1 medium onion, diced
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced
4. 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
5. 4 cups chicken broth
6. 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
7. 2 tablespoons butter
8. 1/2 cup sour cream
9. 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
10. Salt and pepper, to taste
11. Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
2. Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Stir in butter, heavy cream, and sour cream. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Ladle into bowls and top with reserved bacon, extra cheese, and fresh chives.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The combination of mashed and chunked potatoes gives the soup body and texture. Cream, cheese, and butter make it luxuriously smooth, while bacon adds smoky, salty notes. Chives and sour cream bring brightness to balance the richness.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

• Serve with warm crusty bread for dipping.
• Add a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Top with jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Use as a filling for baked potatoes—yes, potato-on-potato is amazing.
• Turn into a potato chowder by adding corn and diced ham.
• Serve over steamed veggies for a creamy sauce alternative.

Additional Tips

• For extra richness, replace some broth with milk.
• Keep the soup warm in a slow cooker for parties or game day.
• Double the batch—this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Make It a Showstopper (Presentation Ideas)

Serve in bread bowls for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation. Garnish generously with toppings so it looks as indulgent as it tastes.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for flavor depth.
2. Can I make it lighter? Use milk instead of cream and reduce the cheese amount.
3. Can I use red potatoes? Yes, but they’ll have a slightly different texture.
4. How do I thicken it more? Stir in a cornstarch slurry or extra mashed potatoes.
5. Can I make it in a slow cooker? Absolutely—just add all ingredients except dairy and cheese, cook on low for 6–7 hours, then stir in cream and cheese at the end.
6. What’s the best cheese to use? Sharp cheddar melts well and has strong flavor.
7. Can I freeze it? Yes—cool completely before freezing in portions.
8. Why is my soup grainy? Overheating after adding cheese can cause this—remove from heat before stirring in cheese.
9. Can I add more vegetables? Yes—carrots, celery, or broccoli are great options.
10. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes—use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Soup is everything you love about comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. It’s perfect for cold nights, casual get-togethers, or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. Make it once, and it will become a staple in your soup rotation.

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Watch How to Make Loaded Potato Soup