When the weather cools down and cravings for cozy meals strike, nothing satisfies quite like Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, this dish captures everything you love about a fully loaded baked potato—crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream—transformed into a rich, soul-warming soup. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a lazy weekend treat.
This recipe not only brings out the indulgent flavors of a steakhouse-style baked potato but also keeps preparation simple, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. One spoonful of this velvety soup, and you’ll understand why it’s a crowd favorite year after year.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
6 medium russet potatoes – The star of the dish. Russets have the perfect starchy texture that breaks down beautifully, creating a creamy soup base.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory notes with its aromatic richness.
4 cups chicken broth – Provides a flavorful liquid base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half) – Ensures a luscious, creamy texture.
1 cup sour cream – Adds tang and richness, balancing the heaviness of the potatoes.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts into the soup for a bold, cheesy flavor.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Infuses smoky, savory crunch.
2 tablespoons butter – Builds a smooth base and adds richness.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
Fresh chives, chopped – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes, prick them with a fork, and bake until tender (about 45–50 minutes). Once cooled, peel and dice them.
2. Cook the Bacon
In a large soup pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat for extra flavor.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, melt butter with the reserved bacon fat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. Build the Base
Sprinkle in flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Potatoes and Cream
Stir in the diced baked potatoes, milk, and half of the cheese. Allow to simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened. Lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a creamier texture, leaving chunks for heartiness.
6. Finish with Flavor
Stir in sour cream, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of chives.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
Rich and Creamy Texture – Thick, velvety broth loaded with chunks of tender potato.
Customizable Toppings – Add jalapeños for heat, broccoli for freshness, or swap bacon for turkey bacon.
Perfect Make-Ahead Meal – The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Don’t skip baking the potatoes. It adds a depth of flavor that boiling alone can’t achieve.
For extra creaminess, blend half the soup with an immersion blender, then mix back into the pot.
Warm the milk before adding. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth soup.
Use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair this Loaded Baked Potato Soup with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for balance.
Turn it into a full meal by adding a side of grilled chicken or steak strips.
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Conclusion
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and topped with all your favorite baked potato fixings. It’s hearty enough to stand alone yet versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides. With
its simple steps, customizable toppings, and unbeatable flavor, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
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