Loaded Potato Soup

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this creamy Loaded Potato Soup, featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a splash of sour cream for extra richness. Perfectly comforting and packed with flavor, this soup is an easy recipe that’s sure to be a family favorite. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2025-11-26T06:19:10.663Z

Comforting and Hearty

Loaded Potato Soup is the embodiment of comfort food. Every spoonful is rich and hearty, perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling. This soup is not only satisfying but also brings a nostalgic sense of home, reminiscent of cozy family dinners. The combination of creamy textures and flavors makes it a go-to recipe for those seeking solace in a bowl.

What sets this soup apart is its ability to adapt to various tastes. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or ingredients, whether it's extra cheese, crispy onions, or even jalapeños for a kick. This flexibility means that Loaded Potato Soup can cater to both traditionalists and those looking to mix things up a bit.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the best aspects of Loaded Potato Soup is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious soup that feels gourmet. The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for novice cooks or those with busy schedules. In less than an hour, you'll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy.

Moreover, once you get the hang of the basics, you can also experiment with different variations. Want to make it vegetarian? Just substitute the chicken broth and bacon for vegetable alternatives. Looking to lighten it up a bit? You can use low-fat milk and yogurt instead of sour cream. The possibilities are endless!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Loaded Potato Soup experience, consider pairing it with crusty bread or soft rolls. Freshly baked bread not only complements the creamy richness of the soup but also serves as a perfect tool for scooping up every delicious bite. You could also serve it with a simple side salad for added freshness and texture, balancing out the meal beautifully.

For those looking to enhance their soup with a bit of flair, toppings can make all the difference. Consider serving the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, some sautéed mushrooms, or even fresh avocado slices. Each addition not only contributes unique flavors but also adds a pop of color and nutrition, making your meal visually appealing and wholesome.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup sour cream
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chives for garnish

Prepare your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth.

Instructions

Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.

Sauté the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and sauté for a few minutes. Then pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.

Add Milk and Cheese

Stir in the milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and chives.

Enjoy your delicious Loaded Potato Soup!

Cooking Tips

When preparing Loaded Potato Soup, be mindful of the potato variety you choose. Russet potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes add a lovely buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes as they tend to hold their shape and won't blend as well into a creamy soup.

Another tip for achieving the best flavor is to properly season at each step of the cooking process. When sautéing the potatoes, add a pinch of salt and pepper to help draw out their natural flavors, and don't forget to taste the soup before serving to adjust the seasoning as necessary.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Loaded Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash more of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much. Stir frequently to keep the creamy texture intact.

If you want to keep the soup for longer, consider freezing it. Just remember to leave out any toppings before freezing, as they may not thaw well. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above for a quick meal that's just as delicious as when first made.

Nutritional Highlights

Loaded Potato Soup packs a wholesome punch, with potatoes offering a good amount of fiber and potassium. The addition of bacon and cheese not only brings flavor but also provides protein, making it a more balanced meal option for those chilly evenings.

If you're looking to enhance the nutritional value even further, consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach to the mix. These additions can boost the vitamin content significantly while adding more color and texture to your soup, ensuring it's not only delicious but also nourishing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the dairy until you reheat it.