The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of loaded potato soup on a chilly day. Creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor, this hearty soup is the perfect comfort food for cozy nights or casual gatherings. With crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tender potatoes, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality goodness right in your own kitchen.

What Is Loaded Potato Soup?

Loaded potato soup is a creamy, potato-based dish that captures the flavors of a fully loaded baked potato. It features russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon, creating a savory, rich, and satisfying bowl of soup. It’s often topped with green onions and extra cheese for added texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make this soup beginner-friendly.
• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon—it’s pure comfort in a bowl.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit dietary needs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (120 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional Toppings: Green onions, extra cheese, sour cream, bacon bits

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cooking the Bacon

1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.

2. Sautéing the Aromatics

1. Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the bacon drippings.
2. Sauté the diced onion over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

3. Building the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the flavors.

4. Cooking the Potatoes

1. Add the cubed russet potatoes to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

5. Creating the Creamy Texture

1. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the potatoes in the pot, creating a thicker texture.
2. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until fully combined.
3. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finishing Touches

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or sour cream as desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this loaded potato soup with:

• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Side Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A decadent combo for cheese lovers.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

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

Freezing Instructions

• Transfer cooled soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the texture becomes too thick.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for milk and use turkey bacon or omit it entirely.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes work well and add a buttery flavor.

How can I make this soup thicker?
Mash more potatoes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! This soup reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of potatoes with the indulgent flavors of bacon, cheese, and sour cream. Perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and let us know how you topped your bowl of cozy goodness!

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