Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and layered with flavor. This soup is perfect for any cozy meal or quick dinner, combining tender potatoes with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a delightful swirl of sour cream. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet night in, this homemade soup will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Soup

This loaded potato soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make! Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a hearty potato soup recipe that warms you from the inside out.
Rich and creamy, it’s the ideal comfort food for chilly nights.
Loaded with bacon and cheese, it satisfies even the hungriest appetites.
Perfect for meal prep—make it ahead and store for later!
Versatile ingredients allow for many variations, including gluten-free options.
Simple to prepare using common pantry staples, making it an easy loaded potato soup recipe.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup

Gather these items:

1 lb russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions

How to Make Loaded Potato Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Peel and dice the potatoes, chop the onion and chives, and mince the garlic. Grate the cheddar and cook bacon until crispy; crumble and set aside.
Step 2: In a large pot, melt butter with 1 tbsp reserved bacon fat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Sprinkle in flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in chicken broth, then milk and cream. Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Add potatoes and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup while keeping some texture.
Step 7: Stir in sour cream and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 8: Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese, crumbled bacon, and chives. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Loaded Potato Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Adjust seasonings according to your taste.
For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.

Best Ways to Serve Loaded Potato Soup

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with:

Crusty bread or soft rolls for dipping.
A fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Top with additional crispy bacon and a dollop of sour cream for a loaded baked potato soup experience!

How to Store and Reheat Loaded Potato Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove while stirring to maintain a creamy consistency. This method is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Potato Soup

What ingredients are in loaded potato soup?

Loaded potato soup typically includes potatoes, bacon, cheese, onion, garlic, and a creamy broth. For variations, consider adding broccoli or using gluten-free options.

Can I make loaded potato soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen. Just remember to reheat gently to preserve its creamy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with loaded potato soup?

To ensure the best results, avoid overcooking the potatoes, which can turn them mushy. Also, make sure to whisk the roux thoroughly to prevent lumps in your creamy potato soup.

Variations of Loaded Potato Soup You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

Add broccoli for a loaded potato soup with broccoli twist.
Substitute bacon for turkey bacon for a healthier loaded potato soup variation.
Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a cheesy potato soup experience.
For a vegetarian option, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead!

Delicious Loaded Potato Soup Recipe for Comforting Nights - Loaded Potato Soup - main visual representation

Delicious Loaded Potato Soup Recipe for Comforting Nights - Loaded Potato Soup - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Cheesy Chicken Noodle Soup or Creamy Tomato Soup. If you’re interested in meal prep, consider Slow Cooker Beef Ramen for an easy dinner option.