When it comes to hearty, comforting dishes that warm you up from the inside out, a bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup stands out as a beloved classic. This rich and creamy soup takes all the delicious elements of a loaded baked potato and transforms them into a satisfying, soul-soothing meal. With a savory combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, cheese, and sour cream, this Homemade Soup Recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you need something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
If you love the flavors of baked potatoes, then this Baked Potato Soup Recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Packed with savory ingredients, this Loaded Potato Soup is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting and filling meal that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor. Read on to learn how to make this delicious Loaded Baked Potato Soup and why it’s a must-try for potato lovers everywhere.
The Origins of Loaded Baked Potato Soup
The concept of Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a simple yet brilliant one: take all the classic toppings of a loaded baked potato—bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions—and incorporate them into a velvety smooth potato soup base. The result is a decadent, creamy soup with a satisfying balance of flavors and textures.
The dish likely traces its roots to the broader tradition of baked potato-based soups, which have been popular in the United States for decades. While there are many variations, the idea of turning a baked potato into soup is believed to have originated from the desire to create a more filling, comforting version of the classic side dish. As with many great comfort foods, Loaded Baked Potato Soup has become a staple in many households, offering a hearty meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
- Creamy and Rich: One of the standout features of Loaded Baked Potato Soup is its luxurious, creamy texture. The combination of creamy milk or cream with tender potatoes creates a velvety base that feels indulgent with every spoonful.
- Flavorful Toppings: The toppings in this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe are just as important as the soup itself. Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions come together to create the perfect balance of flavors.
- Customizable: The beauty of this Baked Potato Soup Recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can add extra vegetables, switch out the cheese, or even swap the bacon for other meats like ham or sausage to suit your tastes.
- Easy to Make: Despite its richness and comfort, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is incredibly easy to make. It requires just a few ingredients and simple steps, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
To make this comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create an incredibly flavorful soup base. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 large russet potatoes – Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe as they’re starchy and break down easily into a creamy consistency when cooked. They also absorb the rich flavors of the soup base beautifully.
- 4 slices of bacon – Bacon adds a savory, smoky flavor that’s essential for a loaded baked potato. Crisp it up and crumble it for topping.
- 1 small onion – Onions contribute a mild sweetness and a savory depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic – Garlic adds aromatic warmth and richness to the soup base.
- 4 cups of chicken broth – Chicken broth serves as the savory liquid base of the soup, enhancing its flavor.
- 2 cups of whole milk or cream – The addition of milk or cream creates a smooth, creamy texture. For a richer soup, use heavy cream.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese provides that classic “loaded baked potato” flavor. It melts beautifully into the soup, adding both richness and flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream – Sour cream adds tanginess, just like the topping on a loaded baked potato. It also helps balance the richness of the cheese and bacon.
- 2 tablespoons of butter – Butter adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic, infusing the soup with savory flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning the soup is key to bringing out the depth of flavor in the potatoes and broth.
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions – Fresh green onions add a sharp, refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Extra shredded cheese – For extra cheesy goodness!
- Crispy bacon bits – You can never have too much bacon!
- Sour cream – For that extra touch of creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Loaded Baked Potato Soup at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Then, cut them into 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook evenly. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the bacon slices. Cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside to cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet you used for the bacon, add the butter and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step infuses the soup base with savory flavors.
Step 4: Combine Potatoes, Broth, and Milk
Once your potatoes are cooked and fork-tender, drain any excess water and return them to the pot. Add the sautéed onions and garlic mixture to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and milk (or cream), stirring to combine everything. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash the potatoes in the pot. You can mash them to your desired consistency, whether you prefer a smoother soup or a more chunky texture. If you’re using an immersion blender, blend for just a few seconds to keep some potato chunks intact.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Once your potatoes are mashed, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Add the Sour Cream
Stir in the sour cream, which will add a rich and tangy flavor to the soup. If you want an extra-creamy texture, you can add more sour cream or cream at this point.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they break down easily and create a creamy base. Other types of potatoes may not give you the same texture.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that is essential for this soup. You can also experiment with using turkey bacon or ham if you prefer.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, garlic, or even a splash of hot sauce for some extra flavor. You can also try different types of cheese for a unique twist.
- Freeze Leftovers: This Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove and add extra milk or cream if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is everything you could ask for in a comforting dish. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a family gathering, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its rich and creamy texture, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and tangy sour cream, it’s a true crowd-pleaser that combines all the best elements of a loaded baked potato into one perfect soup.
So, grab a spoon, cozy up, and enjoy a warm bowl of this homemade Baked Potato Soup. Once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll be hooked on the deliciousness of Loaded Baked Potato Soup for life.
