Name: Loaded Potato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Bacon, chopped; 4 tablespoons Butter; 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 medium Onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper; 1/4 cup Flour; 2.5 cups Low sodium chicken broth; 2.5 cups 2% milk; 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar; 1 cup Shredded white cheddar; 1/2 cup Sour cream; 1/4 cup Chopped chives; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a big, cozy bowl of creamy, hearty loaded potato soup on a chilly evening. This recipe brings together all the things we love about comfort food: rich flavors, incredible textures, and that homemade goodness you just can’t replicate in a restaurant. Imagine the satisfying taste of baked potatoes—complete with melty cheddar, smoky bacon, and fresh chives—in every spoonful!

I first tried making loaded potato soup years ago when searching for an easy meal to bring the family together at the table. The result? Instant classic! My family loved it so much, it quickly became a weeknight staple. Loaded potato soup isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a lifesaver on busy nights because most of it comes together in a single pot.

If you enjoy my Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup, you’ll definitely see why this loaded potato soup belongs in your recipe rotation. Don’t wait for winter—grab your favorite bowl and let’s get cooking this family-friendly, crowd-pleasing soup that’s sure to warm both your kitchen and your heart.

What is Loaded Potato Soup?

Ever wondered why it’s called “Loaded Potato Soup”? The name says it all! This soup takes all the best parts of a loaded baked potato—cheese, bacon, chives, and a dollop of sour cream—and transforms them into a rich, spoonable delight. Why stop at just potatoes when you can load up on flavor, right? It’s like all your favorite potato toppings diving into a warm, cheesy hot tub together. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I’d bet this soup makes the journey for everyone. Try it, and you’ll never look at potatoes the same way again! Don’t be shy—gather your spoons and dig in.

Why You’ll Love This

First off, the magic of loaded potato soup lies in its rich, creamy texture and the irresistible combination of flavors—sharp cheddar, smokey bacon, fresh chives, and fluffy potatoes all mingling in a single bite. Making this at home not only saves you money compared to dining out, but also guarantees you a much fresher and more generous portion. Plus, customizing the toppings lets everyone at the table make their bowl their own.

What really sets this soup apart? The toppings! Crispy bacon, extra cheese, and a dollop of creamy sour cream on top take this dish to a whole new level. It’s like having a loaded baked potato—but even more indulgent. If you’re a fan of my Cheesy Broccoli Soup, you’ll love the way this recipe lets you pile on the toppings for that homemade touch. Ready to make dinner time extra special? Give this recipe a try tonight and taste the difference for yourself.

How to Make Loaded Potato Soup

Quick Overview

Loaded potato soup is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat! With just one big pot, a handful of simple ingredients, and about 40 minutes, you can have a wholesome, satisfying meal ready for your family. This soup stands out with its creamy, velvety base, savory toppings, and the comforting taste that only potatoes can deliver. Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how quickly this dish comes together.

Bowl of creamy loaded potato soup topped with bacon, cheddar, and chives

Ingredients

8 slices bacon, chopped
4 tablespoons butter
4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup flour
2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
2 1/2 cups 2% milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
1 cup shredded white cheddar
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped chives
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

Cook the Bacon:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper-towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
Sauté Vegetables:
Add the butter to the pot and let it melt. Stir in the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.
Add Potatoes and Cayenne:
Sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, then add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Stir everything together so the potatoes get coated and begin to cook for a minute or two.
Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the potatoes and onion. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Add Broth and Milk:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth out while stirring, making sure there are no lumps. Then add the milk. Stir everything together well.
Simmer and Soften Potatoes:
Bring the soup up to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
Mash or Blend:
Use a potato masher for a chunkier soup, or an immersion blender for a smoother texture. Blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Add Cheese and Sour Cream:
Stir in the sharp and white cheddar cheeses until melted. Then stir in the sour cream until fully combined and creamy.
Season and Finish:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Add half the cooked bacon and half the chives, reserving the rest for garnish.
Serve and Top:
Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with remaining bacon, chives, and extra cheese if desired.

What to Serve Loaded Potato Soup With

Loaded potato soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides takes dinner to the next level. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty artisan bread or fresh garlic rolls to soak up every drop of soup. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness, while roasted veggies (like broccoli or carrots) add a burst of color and nutrients. If you like, a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling apple cider makes for a comforting and well-rounded meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For the creamiest soup, use Russet potatoes—they break down nicely and thicken the base. If you want to lighten the soup, substitute half the butter with olive oil, or swap 2% milk for skim milk or half-and-half. Want even more flavor? Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or swapping cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Avoid overcooking the potatoes to prevent them from turning mushy, and remember to stir frequently as the soup thickens to avoid burning on the bottom. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour. Don’t skip the bacon—it truly elevates every spoonful! Craving other toppings? Crumbled crackers or diced green onions work beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Loaded potato soup stores beautifully for up to 4 days in the fridge. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from scorching. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

For freezing, allow the soup to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating. Note that the texture may change a bit after freezing, but a quick blend and some extra cheese will rescue any separation.

FAQs

How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For even more flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms or extra veggies.

Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well, although Russets provide the creamiest texture.

Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup, cool it completely, and store it in the fridge. Reheat on the day you plan to serve.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely. Carrots, celery, or even corn make great additions for extra flavor and color.

What’s the best way to thicken loaded potato soup?
Mashing the potatoes directly in the pot thickens the soup naturally. For an even thicker result, add more flour or blend a portion before stirring it back in.

Conclusion

Loaded potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and brimming with all your favorite baked potato toppings. It’s quick, satisfying, and unbelievably easy to whip up, making it a weeknight hero and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a cost-effective dinner, a family-friendly meal, or just some cozy comfort in a bowl, this recipe ticks all the boxes. If you haven’t tried loaded potato soup yet, now is the perfect time. Gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to fall in love with every flavorful bite. Happy cooking!