Easy Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Incredible Comfort!

Oh, hello there, fellow food lovers! Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of comfort because today, we’re making my absolute favorite: Loaded Baked Potato Soup! This isn’t just any soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, brimming with all the delicious flavors of a fully loaded baked potato.

I remember the very first time I tasted a truly great Loaded Baked Potato Soup. It was at a small diner during a road trip, and I was craving something hearty and comforting. What surprised me the most was how all those familiar baked potato flavors – creamy potato, sharp cheddar, smoky bacon – could come together in such a smooth and satisfying soup. It was utterly unforgettable!

After that, I was determined to recreate that magic in my own kitchen, and after some trial and error, I finally nailed it. I’m so excited to share my version of Loaded Baked Potato Soup with you. It’s approachable, comforting, and perfect for creating memorable moments with your loved ones. This Loaded Baked Potato Soup truly represents my philosophy of turning simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe is special to me because it’s the one dish my family requests most often on chilly evenings. It’s also incredibly versatile – easy to customize with your favorite toppings and perfect for using up leftover baked potatoes.

Alright, enough chit-chat! Let’s dive into this amazing Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe.

INGREDIENTS

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry – this Loaded Baked Potato Soup ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort!

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the best results, use high-quality cheddar cheese. You’ll find the best ingredients for this Loaded Baked Potato Soup at your local grocery store! And if you want to splurge on one Loaded Baked Potato Soup ingredient, make it the bacon! The smokier, the better.

Want to change things up? Swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese – Gruyere or Monterey Jack would be delicious. For a lighter version of this Loaded Baked Potato Soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. I love to use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture.

Here’s the Loaded Baked Potato Soup ingredient that makes all the difference: crispy, crumbled bacon. Be generous with it! If you like that, then you’ll like this Loaded Baked Potato Soup!

Store any unused ingredients in airtight containers in your refrigerator to keep them fresh for your next batch.

Let’s Make This!

Here’s how to bring this Loaded Baked Potato Soup to life, step by step.

1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This is called a roux and helps to thicken the soup. This step might seem tricky, but I promise your Loaded Baked Potato Soup will work perfectly!
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the cubed potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. In my kitchen, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup takes exactly 18 minutes for the potatoes to get nice and soft!
3. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! Here’s a helpful tip for Loaded Baked Potato Soup success: don’t over-blend, as you want some chunks of potato for texture.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, but don’t boil. This is where your Loaded Baked Potato Soup transforms into something truly special!
5. Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese and half of the bacon. The Loaded Baked Potato Soup should look creamy and smell absolutely divine at this point!
6. Ladle the Loaded Baked Potato Soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

While your Loaded Baked Potato Soup is cooking, take a moment to enjoy that amazing aroma! Don’t worry – your Loaded Baked Potato Soup is going to turn out beautifully.

SERVING & PRESENTATION

Now that your Loaded Baked Potato Soup is ready, let’s talk about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment. People always smile when I serve this Loaded Baked Potato Soup at potlucks and game nights!

For a simple but elegant presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and garnish generously with the toppings. A swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs will make it look extra inviting. Consider adding a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping – a perfect complement to the creamy potato soup. If you’re looking for other great pairings for this cheesy potato soup recipe, consider a light salad or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual gathering with friends, or even a special holiday meal. It’s also fantastic for using up leftover baked potatoes – just cube them and add them to the soup!

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can even freeze individual portions for a quick and comforting meal later on. This Loaded Baked Potato Soup creates the sweetest moments at family dinners!

For a seasonal twist, try adding roasted garlic or smoked paprika to your Loaded Baked Potato Soup in the fall. In the spring, fresh chives and a squeeze of lemon juice will brighten it up. You can enjoy this Loaded Baked Potato Soup – I Wash You Dry all year round!

FAQs

Here are some common questions I get asked about making Loaded Baked Potato Soup:

Can I make this Loaded Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often meld together even more beautifully when made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for my Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

No problem! You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter version. The soup will still be delicious, just slightly less rich.

How do I know when my Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfectly done?

The potatoes should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. The soup should be smooth and creamy, with a rich and savory flavor.

Can I freeze this Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. However, dairy-based soups sometimes change texture when frozen and thawed. To minimize this, let the soup cool completely before freezing, and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator. I always add a little extra cream when reheating to restore the original consistency.

What kind of potatoes are best for Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

Russet potatoes are my go-to choice because they are starchy and create a wonderfully creamy texture when blended. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well and have a naturally buttery flavor.

How can I make this Loaded Baked Potato Soup vegetarian?

Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the bacon. You can add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the soup a smoky flavor.

My Loaded Baked Potato Soup is too thick. What do I do?

Gradually add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine. Don’t worry – this Loaded Baked Potato Soup will be just right!

Why This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Will Become Your New Favorite

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup represents everything I stand for: simple, comforting, and utterly delicious meals that bring people together. It’s a dish that’s easy to customize, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Here are my Loaded Baked Potato Soup Success Tips:

• Don’t over-blend: Leave some chunks of potato for a more satisfying texture.
• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the soup will taste.
• Taste and adjust seasonings: Salt and pepper are key to bringing out the flavors.

Here are a few Loaded Baked Potato Soup variations I’ve loved:

• Spicy Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Garlic and Herb Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Sauté some minced garlic with the butter and add fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
• Broccoli Cheddar Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add steamed broccoli florets and extra cheddar cheese.

The garlic and herb version of this Loaded Baked Potato Soup gets the most smiles in my house. I’m confident you’ll find your own personal favorite too!

I hope you’ll make this creamy potato soup recipe part of your regular recipe rotation. It’s a dish that truly warms the heart and soul. So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create some delicious memories! Be sure to share your results. For even more easy potato soup recipe ideas check out The Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup – Sugar Spun Run, Loaded Baked Potato Soup – I Wash You Dry, and Loaded Cheesy Potato Soup – Sailor Bailey.

Enjoy! 🍽️🌟✨

 

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