Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is like a hug in a bowl.

Perfect for cold nights, this velvety soup can make anyone feel cozy and satisfied.

 

Why Make This Recipe

This loaded baked potato soup offers the delightful taste of a loaded baked potato but in a creamy soup form. It’s simple to make, uses readily available ingredients, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

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

3-Step Directions:

1. Cook the Base: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add diced potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
2. Blend the Soup: Once potatoes are soft, blend the soup to your desired consistency using an immersion blender, or carefully transfer it in batches to a stand blender.
3. Finish & Serve: Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream, cooking over low heat until the cheese melts and the soup is hot — about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve topped with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chopped green onions.

Prep Time and Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has approximately 350 calories, 10g of protein, and 20g of fat.

How To Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serve this delicious soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How To Store Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to return its creamy texture.

Tips To Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
• Add some vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• If you want a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or using smoked salt.
• Make it gluten-free by confirming your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This loaded baked potato soup is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits. The potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber, while the heavy cream and cheese supply calcium and protein. The inclusion of onions and garlic can boost your immune system, making this soup a comforting and nutritious option for any meal.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste. For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk, use plant-based cheese, and omit the bacon, or substitute it with tempeh bacon.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

   • Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s completely cool before transferring it to an airtight container.

2. How do I thicken the soup?

   • You can thicken it by blending more of the potatoes or adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

3. Can I make this soup without cream?

   • Absolutely! You can substitute the cream with additional broth or a dairy-free yogurt for a lighter version.

4. What can I add for more flavor?

   • Consider adding spices like cayenne or garlic powder, or herbs such as rosemary or parsley.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?

   • This soup can easily be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free broth.

6. How long will leftovers last?

   • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

7. Can I use other types of potatoes?

   • Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor.