Loaded Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, Loaded Baked Potato Soup is just what you need. This comforting dish combines creamy potatoes with rich flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this soup brings everyone together. Plus, you can easily customize it to suit your taste, making it a staple you’ll want to keep on repeat.

There’s something special about the way the ingredients meld together; each spoonful is packed with deliciousness. It’s not just food; it’s a memory waiting to happen. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This Loaded Baked Potato Soup comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its creamy texture and savory flavors, this soup appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal later in the week.
• Customizable toppings: From crispy bacon bits to fresh chives, you can personalize each bowl to suit everyone’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together to create that rich, comforting flavor we crave during chilly nights. Grab these items, and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a delicious bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup.

For the Soup

• 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup chopped green onions

For the Topping

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon

Variations

One of the best things about Loaded Baked Potato Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and adapt the recipe to match what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Use plant-based options: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This step not only adds flavor but also creates that delightful crunch when served as a topping. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pot and let it drain on paper towels—this keeps it nice and crunchy!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot (don’t wipe it out—those bacon drippings add flavor!), sauté the diced onion until translucent. Next, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. This step builds an aromatic base that makes everything smell amazing!

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

Now stir in your diced potatoes along with low-sodium chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Cover it up and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes. The goal here is to let all those flavors meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

Once your potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree half of the soup. This adds that lovely creamy texture while still keeping some potato chunks for heartiness. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer some soup into a traditional blender—just remember to leave room for steam!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

After blending, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed! This step is where all that richness comes from—it’s simply divine.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Now it’s time to scoop your Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls! Garnish with crumbled bacon bits (if desired), green onions, and extra cheese for a beautiful finish. Enjoy this hearty meal while it’s hot!

This soup is sure to become one of your favorites—perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Making the perfect loaded baked potato soup is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Use a mix of potatoes: Combining Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes can add depth to your soup. Russets provide creaminess while Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor.
• Sauté your aromatics well: Take your time with the onions and garlic; caramelizing them adds a rich sweetness that will deepen the overall flavor of your soup.
• Blend in stages: For a variety of textures, blend only half of the soup. This keeps some potato chunks intact while still providing a creamy base.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Always taste before serving! Adding salt and pepper at the end allows you to fine-tune the flavors based on your personal preference.
• Make it ahead of time: Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for easy reheating.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving loaded baked potato soup is just as fun as making it! It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down depending on your occasion. Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful comfort food.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: For a fresh and mild onion flavor, sprinkle chopped chives on top. They add color and enhance the dish’s visual appeal.
• Sour cream substitute: A dollop of dairy-free sour cream offers creaminess without animal products, making it perfect for diverse dietary needs.
• Extra cheese: A sprinkle of additional shredded cheese right before serving allows it to melt slightly, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly. It’s great for dipping and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
• Caesar salad (vegan option): A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a vegan dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color, nutrition, and a bit of crunch. It’s an easy way to sneak in more veggies!
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread enhances the meal with its soft texture and slight sweetness, making it an excellent pairing with savory soup.

Enjoy creating this delicious loaded baked potato soup! It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights at home, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious soup properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Loaded Baked Potato Soup that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

How can I customize my Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

You can customize this recipe by adding different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, crispy shallots, or even a dollop of sour cream. You can also substitute Russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a unique twist!

How long does Loaded Baked Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Loaded Baked Potato Soup will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to check for freshness before consuming!

Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

What can I serve with Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some warm, crusty bread. You could also serve it with a side of garlic bread for extra comfort!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Happy cooking!