Loaded baked potato soup recipe is the ultimate bowl of comfort — rich, creamy, and packed with all the flavors you love from a classic baked potato. It combines soft russet potatoes, smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and cool sour cream into one satisfying spoonful that feels like home.
This cozy soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm, hearty hug on a chilly day. Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends, it’s simple to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you top it with extra cheese, scallions, or a sprinkle of paprika, this recipe guarantees pure, creamy comfort every time.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Story & Inspiration Behind This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
How a Cold Evening Sparked This Cozy Creation
The loaded baked potato soup recipe is the kind of comfort that wraps you in warmth after a long day. It’s rich, creamy, and layered with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tender potatoes. The first time I made it, San Diego’s evening breeze carried me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen in Marrakesh, where the air always smelled of simmering stews and stories waiting to be shared.
When I moved to California, I missed that sense of comfort. So, I began creating dishes that combined my Moroccan roots with California’s freshness. This loaded baked potato soup recipe became my signature bowl of nostalgia—creamy, cozy, and filled with flavor. Each spoonful reminds me that food is more than ingredients; it’s connection, memory, and love served hot.
Whenever I crave something that feels like a hug in a bowl, I turn to this loaded baked potato soup recipe. It has the same creamy comfort I love in my Crock Pot Potato Soup Recipe — smooth, rich, and easy to make on busy nights.
Why This Soup Is So Irresistibly “Loaded”
A traditional loaded baked potato soup recipe transforms the simple potato into something spectacular. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Creamy Potato Base: Russet potatoes create the perfect velvety texture when blended with milk and butter.
- Crispy Bacon: Adds smoky depth and a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Melted Cheddar Cheese: Gives richness and tang that ties all flavors together.
- Sour Cream & Chives: Add brightness and balance to the soup’s creamy body.
- Optional Garnishes: Try green onions, paprika, or a sprinkle of extra cheese for visual and flavor appeal.
This soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a complete experience. It feels indulgent yet wholesome, filling yet light enough for any season. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this loaded baked potato soup recipe brings everyone to the table. It’s easy, comforting, and deeply satisfying—everything a true homemade dish should be.
Some days, I’ll pair it with my Fresh Tomato Soup Recipe for a burst of brightness that balances the richness. Both soups bring warmth and familiarity to my California kitchen, inspired by the flavors I grew up with in Marrakesh.
Ingredients & Simple Steps for the Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Perfection
Every great loaded baked potato soup recipe starts with a few simple ingredients that come together to create magic in your pot. Choose quality items and fresh produce for the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Russet potatoes, peeled and diced | 4 large |
| Bacon, chopped | 6 slices |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 3 cups |
| Milk or heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 ½ cups |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Chopped green onions or chives | For garnish |
You can swap bacon for turkey bacon or skip it for a vegetarian version. For a lighter soup, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. When it comes to choosing ingredients, I like to keep things simple, just like my Easy Lentil Soup Recipe — wholesome, nourishing, and satisfying. Every spoonful starts with good basics: potatoes, broth, cream, and cheese.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Potato Soup
Follow these steps to master the texture of this creamy loaded baked potato soup recipe:
- Cook the bacon until crisp in a large pot. Remove and set aside, keeping about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pan.
- Add butter, then stir in flour to make a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth gradually while whisking. Stir continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add the diced potatoes and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until tender enough to mash.
- Mash half of the potatoes in the pot for creaminess; leave the rest chunky for texture.
- Stir in milk or cream, then sprinkle in cheddar cheese. Mix until smooth and melted.
- Add sour cream, salt, and pepper. Adjust thickness by adding more milk if needed.
- Top with bacon, green onions, and extra cheese before serving hot.
Pro Tip: Don’t over-blend — it can make the soup gummy. Keep it thick, rich, and rustic. For a bit of classic American comfort, I take cues from my Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe. That same approach — using familiar ingredients with heart — makes this soup taste like something you grew up loving.
Flavor Enhancements & Creative Customizations for Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Fun Twists to Make It Your Own
A great loaded baked potato soup recipe leaves room for creativity. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can play with spices, toppings, and mix-ins to make it your own. The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients—just bold ideas. Here are some of my favorite ways to elevate this comfort classic:
- Add Moroccan flair: Stir in ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, a pinch of cumin, or roasted garlic for depth and warmth.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace bacon with crispy roasted chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a satisfying bite.
- Go spicy: Sprinkle cayenne, chili flakes, or hot sauce for a kick that balances the soup’s creamy richness.
- Upgrade texture: Add a handful of corn or diced carrots for color and crunch.
- Lighten it up: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and skip half the cheese for a lighter yet flavorful bowl. Once you’ve mastered the basics, try giving your loaded baked potato soup recipe a little twist. Add smoky paprika or a dash of cumin for a Moroccan-inspired flavor, just like in my Swamp Soup Recipe where spices make each bite come alive.
Each variation keeps the soul of the loaded baked potato soup recipe intact—creamy, cozy, and deeply comforting—but lets you tailor it to your mood and diet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for a Perfect Soup
Even simple recipes can go wrong without care. Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes when making this loaded baked potato soup recipe:
- Over-blending: Using a blender can make the soup gluey. Instead, mash some potatoes by hand for a balanced texture.
- Using the wrong potato: Stick with russet or Yukon golds; waxy potatoes won’t yield the same creaminess.
- Skipping the roux: The butter-flour base thickens the soup. Without it, the broth stays thin.
- Under-seasoning: Potatoes absorb salt. Taste as you go to ensure flavor in every bite.
- Rushing the simmer: Potatoes need time to soften and release starch for that velvety consistency.
Master these details, and your loaded baked potato soup recipe will deliver restaurant-quality comfort every single time. If you’re after something lighter yet equally cozy, my Pastina Soup Recipe is another go-to. Tiny star-shaped pasta simmered in broth — it’s proof that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated.
Serving Ideas & Nutritional Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Delicious Pairings to Complete the Meal
A loaded baked potato soup recipe is comfort food that doesn’t need much to shine. It’s creamy, filling, and rich enough to stand alone, but the right sides can make it unforgettable. Think of it as a cozy centerpiece surrounded by simple, satisfying pairings that balance texture and flavor.
Here are a few delicious ideas to serve alongside:
- Crusty Artisan Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm bread into creamy soup. Try sourdough or garlic toast for extra flavor.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully.
- Grilled Sandwiches: Pair it with a grilled cheese or turkey melt for the ultimate comfort duo.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, asparagus, or zucchini add both color and nutrition.
- Toppings Bar: Set up bowls of bacon bits, shredded cheese, scallions, and sour cream so everyone can customize their own bowl.
Serve the soup hot in warmed bowls and finish with a sprinkle of cheddar or paprika for that irresistible, homemade touch. This loaded baked potato soup recipe makes the perfect centerpiece for family dinner nights. Pair it with Dumpling Soup Recipe when you want something quick, or serve it alongside Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe for an extra hearty touch.
Healthier Swaps and Nutrition Breakdown
This loaded baked potato soup recipe is undeniably indulgent—but that doesn’t mean it can’t fit into a balanced lifestyle. With a few smart substitutions, you can lighten it up while keeping every bit of creamy comfort intact.
Healthy swaps:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for protein and tang.
- Swap heavy cream for low-fat milk or half-and-half.
- Try turkey bacon for a leaner alternative.
- Add extra vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or cauliflower for fiber and nutrients.
Here’s a simple nutritional overview per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
With these small adjustments, you’ll enjoy a creamy, flavorful loaded baked potato soup recipe that feels indulgent but fits beautifully into your everyday menu. When the weather cools, I love including this recipe in my Winter Comfort Meals collection — a roundup of cozy soups and stews that turn chilly evenings into something special.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
What is loaded baked potato soup?
Loaded baked potato soup is a creamy, savory soup inspired by the classic baked potato. It features tender russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions all blended into one comforting dish. Unlike a plain potato soup, this version is “loaded” with toppings that make every spoonful rich and flavorful. It’s like enjoying your favorite baked potato in a warm, cozy bowl.
What are common mistakes when making potato soup?
Several easy-to-make mistakes can ruin the texture or flavor of your soup.
Over-blending makes it gluey or gummy.
Using the wrong potato type — avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes.
Skipping the roux — that flour-butter mix is essential for thickness.
Rushing the simmer — potatoes need time to soften naturally.
Not seasoning enough — potatoes absorb flavor, so taste as you cook.
Pay attention to these details, and your loaded baked potato soup recipe will come out smooth, creamy, and balanced every time.
Is a loaded baked potato healthy for you?
A traditional loaded baked potato soup is indulgent, but with moderation, it can fit into a balanced diet. Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, swap heavy cream for milk, and try turkey bacon for a lighter twist. Add more veggies like spinach or cauliflower for added nutrients. The result is a healthier loaded baked potato soup recipe that still feels luxurious.
What is good with loaded baked potato soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside grilled sandwiches or a light main dish. For a special touch, add a toppings bar so everyone can personalize their bowl with cheese, chives, and crispy bits of bacon. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that fits any occasion.
Comfort, Flavor, and a Dash of Home
A loaded baked potato soup recipe is more than just a comforting dish—it’s a warm memory in every bite. For me, it connects my Moroccan roots with my California life, blending old traditions and new flavors. Each spoonful feels like home: creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or treating yourself on a cold evening, this recipe brings everyone to the table. So grab your pot, load it up with love, and make this bowl of comfort your own. Cooking, after all, isn’t just about following steps—it’s about creating something that warms the heart as much as the stomach.
For even more inspiration, check out Mexican Soup Recipes for bold flavors or revisit the ever-so-creamy Tomato Soup Recipe with Fresh Tomatoes for everyday comfort.
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Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy Comfort You’ll Love
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and hearty loaded baked potato soup recipe made with russet potatoes, bacon, cheddar, and sour cream — the perfect comfort bowl.
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices bacon, chopped
4 tbsp butter
3 tbsp flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk or heavy cream
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook bacon until crisp and set aside.
2. Melt butter in a pot; whisk in flour to create a roux.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Add diced potatoes and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
5. Mash half the potatoes in the pot for a thick texture.
6. Add milk or cream and cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.
7. Add sour cream, salt, and pepper.
8. Top with bacon, cheese, and green onions before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt and low-fat milk.
Avoid over-blending to keep a rich, rustic texture.
Perfect for meal prep — it reheats beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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