Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with all the classic baked potato toppings, this soup takes the humble spud to luscious new heights. Every spoonful oozes with rich flavors of melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and green onion, making it one seriously irresistible meal that’s perfect for sharing with family or curling up with on your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing this soup’s perfect balance of heartiness and creaminess. Each component adds something unique—potatoes bring the comforting base, cheese adds gooey richness, and bacon offers a delightful crunch and smoky depth.

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced: These starchy potatoes create the ideal creamy, fluffy texture when cooked and blended.
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that softens the potatoes and infuses the soup with savory taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base when sautéed.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Brings that luscious, velvety finish making the soup ultra-rich.
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts perfectly to add sharp, creamy cheesiness in every bite.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Offers a tangy richness that balances the dish beautifully.
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Crisp bacon bits add smoky flavor and delightful texture contrast.
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: Fresh bite and vibrant color, perfect for garnish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the aromatics gently without overpowering the soup.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herb that adds depth and warmth to the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky undertone complementing the bacon nicely.

How to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by gently heating olive oil over medium heat to create the foundation of flavor. Toss in your diced onion and cook it slowly until it becomes soft and translucent, which unlocks its natural sweetness. Adding minced garlic last brings a fragrant punch without burning the delicate cloves. This step is crucial because these aromatics build the layered, comforting base that your soup will rest on.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next, introduce the diced potatoes to the pot, pouring in your broth along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer gently. Cooking the potatoes until fork-tender ensures the soup will be creamy and smooth when blended, with the spices infusing throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Purée the Soup

Once the potatoes are perfectly tender, it’s time to blend. An immersion blender is ideal here for ease, letting you decide if you prefer a silky smooth texture or a bit chunkier for rustic appeal. If you don’t have one, carefully transferring smaller batches to a stand blender works just as well—just be cautious with the hot liquid!

Step 4: Incorporate Dairy and Cheese

The final step in building your flavorful bowl is stirring in the heavy cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Low and slow heating allows the cheese to melt evenly and the soup to thicken to that perfect spoon-coating consistency. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper until it sings your favorite comfort notes.

How to Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Topping this soup well is where you get to have fun and personalize each bowl. Crumbled bacon adds crunch and smoky character, while a sprinkle of chopped green onions lends a fresh bite and lovely pop of color. For extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or more shredded cheddar on top can make it feel like a baked potato party in a bowl.

Side Dishes

This creamy, hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm, buttery biscuit to soak up every last bit. A crisp green salad can also add a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic mugs for a cozy, inviting feel or in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for edible vessels that amp up the comfort factor. Layer garnishes in small bowls on the side to let guests customize their bowls, which is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making reheated soup even tastier.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but because it contains dairy, it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream and cheese. Freeze in portions, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and finishing with fresh cream, cheese, and sour cream for that just-made taste.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much during storage. This way, you’ll revive that silky, comforting texture every time.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy smoked mushrooms or a vegetarian bacon alternative for that smoky crunch.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want to lighten the soup, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind the soup will be a bit less rich and creamy.

Is it okay to leave the soup chunky?

Of course! The beauty of this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is its versatility. If you like more texture, blend only half the soup and mix in the rest for a hearty, chunky finish.

Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! Chopped chives, diced tomatoes, grated parmesan, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can add delicious variety to your bowls.

How thick should the soup be?

The ideal consistency is creamy and thick enough to coat a spoon but still easy to ladle. Adjust thickness by adding broth to thin it or letting it simmer longer to thicken.

Final Thoughts

This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe truly captures everything you want in a cozy meal—richness, warmth, and that nostalgic baked potato flavor we all adore. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to become a favorite that you’ll turn to over and over. Give it a try, invite some loved ones, and enjoy every cozy spoonful together.

Print