Loaded Baked Potato Soup – Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting

There’s something magical about turning a classic baked potato into a cozy bowl of soup.

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is one of my favorite cold-weather comfort dishes—it’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with all the best baked potato fixings: crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions.

Each spoonful is rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying. When I want to warm up and indulge in something hearty, this soup never disappoints.

The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your favorite toppings. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something hearty.

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Recipe Highlights

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup has everything you love about a baked potato, but in spoonable form.

The base is thick and creamy, packed with tender chunks of potato and layered with smoky bacon and melted cheddar.

It’s a simple recipe that feels luxurious, perfect for cozy dinners or weekend gatherings.

Highlights:

• Thick, creamy, and full of flavor
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• Made with simple ingredients and pantry staples
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• Topped with cheddar, bacon, and green onions
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• Comforting and filling for chilly nights
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• Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep

Ingredient Notes

• Russet Potatoes: The perfect choice for baked potato flavor—they’re starchy, fluffy, and help naturally thicken the soup.
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• Bacon: Adds smoky richness and a salty crunch on top; reserve some for garnish.
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• Butter: Creates a silky base and combines with flour for the roux that thickens the soup.
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• Flour: Helps the soup achieve that rich, chowder-like consistency.
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• Milk & Chicken Broth: The duo that forms a creamy yet balanced soup base. Whole milk gives richness, while broth adds savory depth.
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• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives bold flavor—freshly grated is best.
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• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and a velvety finish.
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• Green Onions: Brighten the soup and balance its richness.
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• Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make My Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
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2. Prepare the Roux: Remove most of the bacon fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot. Add butter and let it melt. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flavor.
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3. Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
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4. Add Potatoes: Stir in diced potatoes and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes until tender.
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5. Mash & Thicken: Using a potato masher, mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a thicker texture, leaving some chunks for heartiness.
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6. Add Cheese & Sour Cream: Stir in shredded cheddar and sour cream until melted and creamy.
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7. Finish & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with bacon, more cheddar, and sliced green onions.

Comforting Creaminess in Every Spoonful

Loaded baked potato soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.

This creamy soup features large russet potatoes, peeled and diced, simmered in chicken broth until tender.

The addition of whole milk and all-purpose flour creates a rich, velvety base that is simply irresistible.

To enhance the experience, the soup is finished with generous amounts of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream, making each bite a comforting indulgence.

Topped with crispy slices of thick-cut bacon and garnished with sliced green onions, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors.

Simple Steps to a Hearty Delight

Preparing this loaded baked potato soup is straightforward and can be accomplished in about 45 minutes.

Start by prepping your ingredients: peel and dice the russet potatoes, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy, and chop the green onions for garnish.

In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and add the diced potatoes along with chicken broth.

Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. This step is crucial for developing the soup’s base.

Thickening the Flavor

Once the potatoes are cooked, it’s time to thicken the soup. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and whole milk until smooth.

Gradually add this mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the soup reaches the desired thickness.

Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream, allowing them to melt and blend into the soup.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

When ready to serve, ladle the soup into rustic bowls for a cozy presentation. Top each bowl with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.

The combination of textures and tastes creates a delightful experience that is sure to please.

Serve this soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. It also pairs perfectly with a simple green salad to balance the richness.

For an extra treat, top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of paprika, or even some crispy fried onions for crunch.

Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual gathering, this soup is sure to impress your guests.

A Cozy Kitchen Experience

The setting in which you enjoy this soup can enhance its comforting qualities. Picture a cozy kitchen, with the aroma of the soup wafting through the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

The rustic bowls and warm atmosphere create a perfect backdrop for sharing this delicious dish.

As you savor each spoonful, the combination of creamy soup, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions will transport you to a place of warmth and contentment.

This loaded baked potato soup is not just a meal; it’s a moment to cherish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is ideal for a variety of occasions, from family dinners to casual get-togethers with friends.

Its hearty nature makes it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner, while the ease of preparation allows you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

With its rich flavors and comforting texture, loaded baked potato soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Embrace the warmth and joy it brings, and don’t forget to share it with those you care about!

Tips for the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup

For an ultra-creamy texture, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded—it melts more smoothly and has better flavor.

If the soup thickens too much as it sits, stir in a splash of warm milk or broth before serving.

Always season gradually and taste as you go; potatoes soak up salt quickly, so balance is key.

For a lighter option, substitute half of the milk with chicken broth or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the soup has thickened.

Avoid boiling, as it may cause the dairy to separate. This soup also freezes well—cool completely before freezing for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.