SPREAD LOVE

Why Make This Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect comfort dish for any chilly day. It’s warm, creamy, and packed with flavors that remind you of a classic baked potato but in a cozy soup form. This recipe is easy to follow and brings together simple ingredients to create a delicious meal that can warm your soul. Whether you want something for dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy your favorite baked potato toppings in one comforting bowl!

How to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Once potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to achieve a smooth or slightly chunky texture as preferred. Alternatively, carefully transfer soup in batches to a stand blender and blend until smooth.
Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue cooking over low heat until cheese fully melts and soup is heated through, around 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Ladle soup into serving bowls. Top each portion with crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, and chopped green onions before serving.

How to Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls for the best experience. You can add extra toppings like crispy bacon, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for more flavor. It pairs well with warm bread or a side salad, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to Store Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer.

Tips to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

For an even more flavorful soup, you can roast the potatoes instead of boiling them before adding them to the pot.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor, or try a mix of cheeses for a twist.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Variation

You can easily customize this soup by adding in other veggies like carrots or celery for added texture and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative if you want a lighter option.

3. What if I don’t have an immersion blender?
You can carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches and blend until you reach your desired consistency. Just be cautious of hot liquids!