Loaded Potato Soup

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Loaded Potato Soup is everything you love about a loaded baked potato, transformed into a warm, creamy bowl of comfort. This soup delivers the indulgent flavors of bacon, cheddar, and chives blended seamlessly into a silky potato base. Perfect for cold nights or cozy weekends, it’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a hug and makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.

What makes this soup truly irresistible is its balance of rich creaminess and savory toppings. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner or a starter to impress, this soup can easily be tailored with your favorite add-ins. It’s quick enough for weeknights and crowd-pleasing enough for gatherings.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use for Loaded Potato Soup?

Russet potatoes are the gold standard here because they break down easily and help naturally thicken the soup. Yukon Golds are a good second choice if you prefer a slightly buttery flavor and a silkier texture. Red potatoes aren’t ideal since they hold their shape too well for a creamy soup.

Ingredients for the Loaded Potato Soup

• Russet Potatoes: The starchy base that breaks down to create a naturally thick, creamy texture.
• Heavy Cream & Milk: These bring the luxurious richness to the soup’s body.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds bold, tangy flavor.
• Cooked Bacon: Adds crunch and smoky, salty depth.
• Butter: For sautéing and building a rich flavor base.
• Garlic & Onion: Aromatic foundation that builds flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth and thins the soup to the perfect consistency.
• Flour: Helps thicken the soup when whisked into the butter.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning for balance.
• Chives or Green Onions: For garnish and a fresh bite.

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How To Make the Loaded Potato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by frying the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy. Remove it to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Discard excess bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add butter to the pot. Once melted, sauté diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Base

Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps. Then add in milk and cream.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Simmer

Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks. Add them to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Blend and Season

Use a potato masher for a chunky soup, or an immersion blender for a smoother texture. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, extra cheese, and chopped chives or green onions.

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Best Ways to Serve and Store This Loaded Potato Soup

Serve this soup hot, straight from the pot, with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it.

This soup also freezes well—just leave out the dairy when freezing and stir in cream and cheese after reheating for best results.

What to Serve With Loaded Potato Soup?

Crusty Sourdough Bread

The tangy chewiness of sourdough pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Salad with Vinaigrette

A fresh, crisp salad cuts through the richness for perfect balance.

Garlic Parmesan Knots

Buttery and cheesy, these make an irresistible side.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add some earthy greens with a bit of crunch for contrast.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Level up the comfort with a gooey, golden grilled cheese on the side.

Deviled Eggs

Great for gatherings and adds a little zing to your soup course.

Pickled Veggies

Something tangy and sharp can break up the richness in a delightful way.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If this loaded potato soup hit the spot, you’ll want to explore these creamy, comforting bowls too:

• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a classic cheesy green favorite.
• Italian Sausage Soup if you’re craving something hearty with a spicy kick.
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for luxurious seafood comfort.
• A Hearty Bowl of Comfort: Tuscan Bean Soup for rustic, plant-based warmth.
• Creamy Spicy Rotel Dip if you love velvety textures with bold heat.

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I’d love to know how your soup turned out! Did you mash or blend? Go extra with toppings or keep it classic? Share your variations in the comments!

And if you’re looking for more cozy, feel-good food, browse our collection of health-boosting and soul-satisfying dishes right here on ChefAlchemy.

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