Name: Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Yukon Gold potatoes; 4 cups Chicken broth; 0.5 cup Milk; 4 slices Bacon (cooked and crumbled); 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons Chopped chives

Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a family favorite, real weeknight. What is the best soup you have ever eaten? Loaded Baked Potato Soup! What are the best parts of a perfectly loaded baked potato? How do you make bacon, cheddar cheese, a dollop of Sour Cream, and chives – and turning them into silky, dreamy dreams? Think of it as the sophisticated, yet equally satisfying cousin to a classic creamy tomato soup… What are potatoes? What’s the best takeout you’ve ever had? Only option, this will be ready before the delivery guy even finds your house. What is the secret to a good quality potato and not being afraid to load it with all the toppings? I know it’s one you’ll be making again and again. My kids ask for it weekly, especially now that it’s getting colder outside.

What is a loaded baked potato soup?

What is Loaded Baked Potato Soup? What is a creamy, comforting soup that mimics the flavors of baked potatoes? Think of it as deconstructed baked potato, blended into a smooth, velvety texture. I like to cook Russets for their fluffy texture, I prefer to use milk or cream. I make a base of cooked potatoes. I’ve used almond milk in a pinch. (or even half and half – I have even used coconut milk! What are the “loaded” elements? What’s a good combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt, and hummus? What are the advantages of fresh chives or green onions? Is this a good meal for chilly evenings? What is a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, making it sure to please. My grandma used to make a version of potato soup without all the toppings, but this, *this* is on the menu.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some of the best reasons to love this Loaded Baked Potato soup? What is the best way to break it down:

Flavor explosion: HowIs it like a party in your mouth? What are the creamy potatoes, the salty bacon, sharp cheese, tangy sour cream? Is there a perfect harmony of flavors and textures? I always make sure my bacon is extra crispy because it really adds a nice crunch.
Ridiculously easyWhat is the easiest soup to make? Most of the time is just letting the potatoes bake! What is a single pot? Minimal chopping, simple steps, and it all comes together in one pot. What is the best thing to do when you’re short on time and energy?
Budget friendlyWhat are the best potatoes to buy in your fridge? What’s a good meal that won’t break the bank? I usually buy a big bag of potatoes on sale and freeze half of them just so I can make this anytime.
Versatile:What’s a good spice to add? Cayenne pepper. Need a dairy free option? Use almond milk and dairy-free cheese. Is it possible to blend it longer? I’ve even added roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

What I love about Loaded Baked Potato Soup is that it’s pure comfort food. What’s like a warm hug in the bowl, perfect for cozy nights in. What makes this potato soup so good? If you love potato skins, you will love this!

How do I make baked potato soup?

Quick Overview

What is the easiest way to make soup? How do you bake potatoes? While they’re baking, you’ll crisp up some bacon (because bacon makes everything better, right?). Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop out the insides, leaving the skins behind. What’s the best way to cook a potato inside with milk? What are some seasonings, and simmer it all together. Lastly, you’ll blend it until it’s smooth and creamy, and top it with all the glorious toppings. Is it really that simple? I’ve got all the tips and tricks to make it perfect every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

How many large rutset potatoes do you have? I prefer Russets because they get nice and fluffy when baked, but you can use Yukon Golds if you like them. I prefer a slightly creamier texture. Make sure they’re all roughly the same size so they bake evenly.
4 cups milk (or half and half, or almond milk): 1 cup. Whole milk gives you the creamiest result, but lower-fat options work too. Is almond milk creamier than regular milk?
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): 1 cup ice cream. Low-sodium is best so you can control the saltiness of the soup. How do I make homemade broth?
What is the best butter to use? Unsalted or salted? How much salt should I add to soup?
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste. Remember, the bacon and cheese will also add salt.
What is the best way to ground black pepper?
What is the best garlic powder?

For the Toppings:

I like to use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor.
I use Sharp cheddar, but you can use any cheese you like. What are some good substitutes for pepper jack?
What is the best way to add sour cream to a soup? Is Greek yogurt a healthier alternative to sour cream?
1/2 cup chopped chives: For a fresh, vibrant garnish.

How do I learn step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is preheating, scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. How do you prick a potato if it explodes in the oven? Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. How long does it take for potatoes to bake?

Step 2: Bake Potatoes

Bake the potatoes for 1 hour, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. You want them to be nice and soft all the way through. The skin should be slightly wrinkled and the inside should feel soft when you squeeze it gently. If they’re not quite done, bake them for another 10-15 minutes and check again. I sometimes microwave a few minutes first to speed up the process – don’t tell anyone.

Step 3: Cook Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon until crispy. Is it safe to bake potatoes in the oven? How do I separate a baking sheet Why is oven-baked bacon less messy? Once the bacon is cooked, drain off the excess grease and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.

Step 4: Scoop Out Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, carefully cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides of the potatoes, leaving the skins intact. Can you discard the skins, or save them to make potato skin appetizers? What is the best way to cook a potato inside if it’s roasted in the Dutch Oven?

Step 5: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Add the chicken broth, butter, salt, pepper, and the milk (or milk alternative) to the mixture. Stir to combine. Add garlic powder to the pot with the potatoes. Stir to combine. Is it okay if it looks lumpy at this point?

Step 6: Simmer

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Add the onion and stir to combine. How do I reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally? What is the best way to cook potatoes? Keep an eye on it and stir frequently so it doesn’t scorch on the bottom of the pot.

Step 7: Blend

Remove the pot from the heat and carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender. How do I make my skin smooth and If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. How do you prevent hot soup from splattering? ). Blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot. I like to leave a few small chunks of potato for texture, but you can blend it completely smooth if you like.

Step 8: Serve and Load

How do I top a soup with bacon, sour cream, and greek yogurt? What are the ingredients for yogurt), and chopped chives (or green onions)? Serve immediately and enjoy! Don’t be shy with the toppings – that’s what makes it a *loaded* baked potato soup!

What should I serve it with?

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a meal on its own, but it’s also delicious with fewer complementary ingredients. What are some of my favorite pairings?

For a light lunch:What is a simple side salad with vinaigrette? What is the acidity of the dressing? I love a Caesar salad or mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
What is a hearty dinner?Grilled cheese sandwiches. What’s better than dipping grilled cheese into a bowl of creamy soup? What are some good cheeses to use for extra flavor?
For a Crowd-Pleasing Appe Mini potato skins. Use the potato skins you scooped out earlier to make bite-sized appetizers. Top them with cheese, bacon, and sour cream, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a Cozy Night In: Crusty bread. Perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup! Try a sourdough baguette or a loaf of crusty Italian bread.

In my family, we have a tradition of serving this soup with cornbread on cold winter nights. The sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory soup. My grandpa always insisted on having a dollop of butter on his cornbread – and I have to admit, it’s pretty delicious!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Want to take your Loaded Baked Potato Soup to the next level? Here are some of my top tips:

Bake, Don’t Boil: Baking the potatoes is key to getting that fluffy, flavorful texture. Boiling them will make them waterlogged and bland. Trust me on this one!
Don’t Overblend: Be careful not to overblend the soup, or it can become gluey. Just blend it until it’s smooth and creamy, but still has a little bit of texture.
Crispy Bacon is a Must: Don’t skimp on the bacon! Crispy bacon adds a delicious salty crunch to the soup. Make sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy, and crumble it into small pieces.
Use Good Quality Cheese: The cheese is another key ingredient, so use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar is my favorite, but you can use any cheese you like.
Add a Touch of Heat: If you like a little bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with the toppings! The toppings are what make this a “loaded” baked potato soup. Load it up with bacon, cheese, sour cream, and chives.

I learned this trick after years of making it: if you want a smokier flavor, try using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. It adds a subtle, but noticeable, smoky note that pairs perfectly with the bacon and potatoes.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little bit of milk or broth when reheating. Store the toppings separately so they don’t get soggy.
Freezer Instructions: The soup can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Freezing can change the texture slightly, sometimes making it a bit grainy, so keep that in mind. It’s still delicious, though!
Glaze Timing Advice: Always add the toppings fresh when serving, whether reheating from the fridge or freezer. Sour cream especially doesn’t freeze well and will change texture.

One thing I’ve found is that this soup actually tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. So, if you have time, make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator overnight. You won’t be disappointed!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this Loaded Baked Potato Soup gluten-free by ensuring your chicken broth and bacon are gluten-free. Most brands are, but always double-check the labels. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, you don’t need to peel the potatoes! I actually prefer to leave the skins on for added nutrients and texture. Just make sure to scrub them clean before baking. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can peel them, but I think you’ll miss out on some of the flavor and fiber.

Can I make this as a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon substitute. You can also add a little bit of smoked paprika to the soup to give it a smoky flavor. Be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I make this spicier?

If you like a little bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños to the soup. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar cheese for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier soup. Red potatoes will work too, but they won’t be as fluffy. I don’t recommend using sweet potatoes, as they will change the flavor of the soup too much.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my family’s favorite Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe! I truly believe this is the ultimate comfort food, and I hope you love it as much as we do. It’s incredibly flavorful, surprisingly easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for other comforting soup recipes, be sure to check out my creamy tomato soup or my hearty chili recipe. And if you try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I love hearing your feedback and seeing your variations. Happy cooking!