Here’s a creamy, indulgent Loaded Baked Potato Soup that tastes just like your favorite loaded spud—packed with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, green onions, and sour cream. Perfect for cozy nights!
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled & diced (about 4 medium)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- ½ cup sour cream, plus extra for topping
- Toppings: Chopped green onions, extra bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving 2 tbsp bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Add butter, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 mins until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute (this thickens the soup).
- Simmer the soup:
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth.
- Add potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 mins (until potatoes are fork-tender).
- Blend (optional):
- For a creamier texture, use a potato masher or immersion blender to purée half the soup, leaving some chunks.
- Add cheese & sour cream:
- Stir in cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot topped with bacon, green onions, extra cheese, and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips:
- Extra creamy? Swap 1 cup milk for heavy cream.
- Shortcut: Use pre-cooked bacon (add at the end).
- Crockpot version: Cook onions/garlic first, then add all ingredients (except dairy) to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW 6-8 hrs, then stir in cheese/sour cream.
- Vegetarian? Omit bacon, use veggie broth, and top with tempeh “bacon.”
This rich, smoky, and ultra-comforting soup is a bowl of happiness—especially with crusty bread for dipping! 😊🥔🥓
Let me know if you’d like any tweaks!