What is comfort food? Remember those nights when all you wanted was a giant, loaded baked potato piled high with cheese? What is bacon, and all the fixings? What is a baked potato soup? Is it incredibly easy to make, and honestly, tastes like a warm hug on chilly days? I always think of it as the soup version of those perfect, crispy-skinned baked potatoes my grandma used to make. Is it easier to make a meal but much quicker to get it on the table? Is baking potatoes faster than cooking potatoes? What is instant gratification?

What is a loaded baked potato soup?

What is baked potato heaven? This soup takes all the best parts of a loaded baked potato – the creamy potato base, the sharp potato edges. What are some of the best comforting ingredients in a cheesecake? What is essentially pureed potatoes with all your favorite toppings stirred in? I always say it’s the perfect bridge between a simple potato soup and full-blown baked potato. It’s not fancy, it’s no complicated, but man, is it good!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, let me tell you *why* you need this recipe in your life. First, the flavor is insane. You get the comforting creaminess of the potatoes, the smoky saltiness of the bacon, the sharp bite of the cheddar cheese, and the cool tang of the sour cream – all working together in perfect harmony. Seriously, it’s a party in your mouth! And the best part? It’s so ridiculously easy to make. This **Loaded Baked Potato Soup** is one of those weeknight lifesavers that comes together in under an hour. I’m talking from-scratch deliciousness with minimal effort.
What I love most about this soup is how budget-friendly it is. Potatoes are cheap, bacon is usually on sale, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry. It’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different toppings, like chives, green onions, or even a dollop of salsa! It’s also great for sneaking in some extra veggies, like finely chopped broccoli or cauliflower – the kids will never know! I’ve tried other potato soup recipes, but this one always comes out on top. There’s just something about that creamy, cheesy, bacon-y goodness that keeps everyone coming back for more.

How do you make a loaded baked potato soup?

Quick Overview

Basically, you’re going to cook some potatoes until they are nice and soft, then mash or blend them. What is the best way to make a creamy base After that, you’ll stir in all the delicious toppings and simmer until everything is melty and creamy. Is it really that easy to make potato salad? Don’t skimp on the bacon, use a good sharp cheddar, and don’t forget the sour cream – it makes all the difference. What is the difference?

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed: 2 pound. Russets are the best for that classic baked potato flavor. Yukon Golds will also work, but the soup will be a bit creamier.
• 6 cups chicken broth: You can also use vegetable broth for vegetarian versions. I’ve even used bone broth for extra nutrients.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the soup extra creamy and luxurious. You can substitute with half-and-half, but the soup won’t be quite as rich. I tested this with almond milk once, and it actually turned out surprisingly well! Just be sure to use unsweetened almond milk.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, depending on how salty your broth and bacon are.
• What are the best ways to ground black pepper?
• 4 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and flavor. I use unsalted so I can control the saltiness of the soup.
• What is the best way to thicken soup? Can you use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed?

For the Toppings:

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: I prefer thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and texture. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy!
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup melted. I like Sharp cheddar, but you can use any kind of cheese you like. What are some good alternatives to Monterey Jack, Colby Jack or Pepper Jack?
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy coolness to the soup. Can you substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option?
• 1/2 cup chopped chives or green onions: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

What are the steps to

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. How do you pierce a fork?

Step 2: Make the Roux

While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is called roux, and it will help to thicken the soup.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

Gradually whisk the roux into the potato mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Puree the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you’re using a blender to make soup, transfer the soup to chopping board. (Be careful, hot soup can burn.) I personally like to leave it a little chunky, so I usually just mash the potatoes with another potato.

Step 5: Add the Cream

Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Heat through, but don’t let the soup boil.

Step 6: Load It Up!

What is the best soup to serve with bacon, sour cream, and ham? What is the best way to cook green onions? Serve immediately and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

What is a good side dish to serve with baked potatoes? What are some good grilled cheese sandwich ideas? I love serving it with a simple green salad to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can top it with a drizzle of hot sauce or smoked paprika.

For a Cozy Night In:Serve with grilled cheese sandwiches cut into strips for dipping. What’s better than a side of bread slathered with butter?

For a Game Day Party: What are some ideas?Set up a “soup bar” with all sorts of toppings, like different kinds of cheese, bacon bits, green onions, etc. Add cheese to the bar and serve. What are some good substitutes for onions, salsa, and tortilla chips? Let everyone customize their own bowls!

What is a quick lunch? This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Just pack it in a thermos and top with your favorite toppings when you’re ready to eat. It’s so much better than anything you can get at a restaurant!

What is your favorite recipe for baked potato soup? What is the best way to get everyone excited for the main course?

How do you make baked potato soup?

What are some of the best loaded baked recipes? What is the best potato soup? What are the little things I’ve learned over the years that really take this soup to the next level?

Potato Power: Don’t skimp on the potatoes! Use good quality Russets for the best flavor and texture. And make sure to peel them well, nobody wants potato skins in their creamy soup!

Bacon Bliss:Cook bacon until it’s nice and crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. What is the best way to eat bacon? Don’t be afraid to use bacon grease to sauté some onions or garlic before adding the broth – it can kill the bacteria in your liver. What are the best ways to add flavor to a dish?

Cheese Please:Why don’t I just dump it all in at once? Add it gradually, stirring until it’s melted and creamy.

Creamy Dreamy:Why don’t you skip the heavy cream? If you’re watching your calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or even milk (but the calories are not as high as they should be). Why isn’t soup creamy? I’ve even used a little bit of cream cheese for extra creaminess!

What is the best way to blend ingredientsIf you want a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture. If you over-blend soup, it will become gluey. I personally like to leave it a little chunky, so I usually just mash the potatoes with potato.

Seasoning Savvy: Don’t forget to season your soup properly! Salt, pepper, and a little bit of garlic powder go a long way. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. My husband always adds a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick!

Topping Time: Get creative with your toppings! Crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped chives or green onions are the classics, but you can also add things like jalapenos, salsa, or even crumbled tortilla chips.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This **Loaded Baked Potato Soup** is even better the next day, after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator Storage: Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: This soup freezes well! Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: You can reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. Or, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until it’s hot.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re adding toppings, wait until just before serving to add them. This will prevent the cheese from melting and the bacon from getting soggy.

I always make a double batch of this soup so I can have leftovers for lunch. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! My go-to recipe for **Loaded Baked Potato Soup**. It’s comforting, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Trust me, once you try this soup, you’ll be hooked! It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold day, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Chicken Noodle Soup. And if you make this **Loaded Baked Potato Soup**, be sure to leave a comment and let me know how it turned out! I can’t wait to hear from you. Happy cooking!