In the cold embrace of winter, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of loaded baked potato soup—creamy and hearty comfort food that wraps around you like a warm hug. Imagine the aroma of roasted garlic mingling with the earthy scent of potatoes, all simmered into a velvety broth that invites you to dive in with reckless abandon. This delightful concoction is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tickles your senses and warms your soul.

Picture this: you’re cozied up on the couch after a long day, snowflakes dancing outside your window, and the only thing missing is a big bowl of this luscious soup. It reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with the clinking of spoons against bowls, everyone savoring each hearty bite together. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a craving for something cozy, this loaded baked potato soup is always the right choice, promising flavors that will have you dreaming of second servings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This loaded baked potato soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The combination of creamy textures and savory flavors will make your taste buds dance
- Visually appealing with its vibrant toppings, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself
- Versatile enough to customize based on personal preferences or leftovers, this dish has something for everyone!
I still remember the first time I made this soup; my friends devoured it in minutes and declared me a culinary genius.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: Choose firm potatoes for their creamy texture when cooked; they’re the star ingredient here.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness and depth, transforming your soup into an indulgent treat.
Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give your soup that extra zing; it melts beautifully.
Bacon Bits: Crispy bacon not only enhances flavor but also adds crunch; use pre-cooked for convenience.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide brightness and color; chop them finely for even distribution.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses aromatic notes into the soup; don’t skimp on this essential flavor booster.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding rich flavor.
Butter: A touch of butter enhances overall creaminess; it’s all about those layers of flavor.
Sour Cream: For topping, sour cream adds tanginess that complements the richness perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first: gather all your ingredients together so we can create some kitchen magic!
Prep Your Potatoes: Begin by peeling and dicing about four russet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute should do.
Add Chicken Broth: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Toss in your diced potatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook until tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
Create Creamy Goodness: Reduce heat to low once potatoes are soft. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined—this is where dreams come true!
Mash It Up (Optional): For added texture, mash some potatoes against the side of the pot using a wooden spoon while leaving others intact. This creates a delightful mix!
Add Toppings: Serve hot and garnish generously with crispy bacon bits, more cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Sit back as people swoon at the sight!
And there you have it—a comforting bowl of loaded baked potato soup that’s sure to warm hearts (and bellies) alike! Enjoy every creamy spoonful as you reminisce about cozy evenings spent sharing meals with loved ones.
This recipe captures everything we love about comfort food: simplicity, warmth, and a little bit of indulgence!
You Must Know
- Loaded baked potato soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- The creamy texture and savory toppings make it perfect for any occasion
- Enjoy it on chilly nights or serve it at parties, and watch your guests rave about it
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then sauté onions and garlic in the same pot. Add potatoes and broth before simmering for the perfect creamy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or use different cheese blends. You can also add herbs like chives for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly creamy soup, blend part of the mixture to enhance texture without losing heartiness
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor, and don’t rush the simmering process to allow flavors to meld beautifully
Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around, spoons in hand, ready to dig into that comforting bowl of goodness.
FAQ
Can I make loaded baked potato soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit bacon and use vegetable broth instead for a delicious vegetarian option.
What toppings work best for this soup?
Consider adding sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
How can I thicken my loaded baked potato soup?
You can thicken it by blending part of the soup or adding a cornstarch slurry while simmering.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Warm up your winter nights with this creamy, loaded baked potato soup that delivers comfort in every spoonful. With a rich blend of russet potatoes, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and aromatic garlic, this hearty dish is sure to become a household favorite. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, each bowl promises warmth and satisfaction.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup bacon bits (cooked)
- ¼ cup green onions (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream for topping
Instructions
- 1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- 2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook until tender (15–20 minutes).
- 3. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- 4. For texture, mash some potatoes against the pot while leaving others intact.
- 5. Serve hot, garnished with bacon bits, more cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 55mg