Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comforting taste of this Loaded Baked Potato Soup, a hearty and creamy delight that combines the classic flavors of baked potatoes with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh chives. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bowl. Serve it as a cozy dinner or a delicious appetizer at gatherings.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-14T11:46:57.746Z

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience. When you take a spoonful of this indulgent soup, you're greeted with the rich flavors of baked potatoes and crispy bacon. It's a wonderful choice for a chilly afternoon or as a fantastic starter for any gathering.

A Creamy Classic for All Seasons

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an ideal comfort food during cooler months, while its fresh ingredients can also brighten days in the spring and summer. This soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. The combination of baked potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese brings a classic twist that appeals to both young and old alike.

One of the best aspects of this soup is its ability to serve as a hearty meal or a delightful appetizer. When hosting a dinner party or casual gathering, this soup can be ladled into small bowls as a starter, enticing guests with its indulgent flavors. Alternatively, add a slice of crusty bread, and you have a filling main dish that will leave everyone satisfied.

Easy to Customize

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can easily tailor it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you're vegetarian, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon, or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative for a similar taste.

Additionally, you can experiment with the toppings. Besides the classic garnishes of chives and sour cream, feel free to add a sprinkle of paprika, diced green onions, or even some fresh parsley for a pop of color. The opportunities are endless, allowing you to create a unique dish with every preparation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, baked and cubed
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped chives
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for cooking

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble, leaving the grease in the pot.

Sauté Aromatics

Add butter to the pot and sauté onions until translucent. (Optional: you can add garlic for additional flavor).

Add Potatoes and Broth

Add the cubed baked potatoes and pour in the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until everything is heated through.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup to your desired creaminess. You can leave some chunks for texture if preferred.

Mix in Cheese and Milk

Stir in the shredded cheddar, milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated.

Serve and Top

Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon, chives, and a dollop of sour cream.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors often improve after a night in the fridge, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. To reheat, simply pour the desired amount into a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the soup if it thickens during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned, ensuring you'll have a comforting meal ready in no time.

Nutritional Benefits

Loaded Baked Potato Soup isn't just delicious; it's also quite nutritious. Potatoes are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and proper bodily functions. The addition of cheese and sour cream provides a good source of calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle strength.

By incorporating fresh chives, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the soup's nutritional profile. Chives are low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them a beneficial ingredient. Overall, this soup can be a part of a balanced diet, especially when served with a side salad or whole grain bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon.