Nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of loaded potato soup on a chilly day. This creamy potato soup recipe is inspired by the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato, combining tender potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and rich cream into one hearty dish. The result is a homemade potato soup that is thick, smooth, and full of comforting flavor.
If you’ve been searching for an easy loaded potato soup recipe, this version keeps things simple while delivering the same restaurant-style loaded potato soup taste you love. With just a few everyday ingredients and one pot, you can make a rich and creamy loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese right at home.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or craving a comfort food soup, this best loaded potato soup recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
What Is Loaded Potato Soup
Loaded potato soup is a rich and satisfying comfort food soup made with tender potatoes, creamy broth, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese. It is known for its thick texture and bold flavors, which make it a favorite during colder months. Unlike a simple potato soup recipe, this dish is packed with extra ingredients that give it a hearty and indulgent taste. Many people love it because it combines the flavors of a classic homemade potato soup with the toppings of a baked potato.
The idea behind loaded baked potato soup comes directly from the traditional loaded baked potato. A baked potato is often topped with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions, and this soup captures those same flavors in a warm and creamy bowl. By cooking the potatoes in broth and adding dairy and cheese, the soup becomes smooth and comforting while still keeping the familiar toppings people love.
What makes loaded potato soup different from traditional creamy potato soup is the extra richness and texture. A regular potato soup is usually simpler, focusing mainly on potatoes, broth, and cream. In contrast, loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese includes bold toppings and stronger flavors, giving it a more filling and satisfying taste.
Some of the most popular loaded potato soup toppings include crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped chives, and green onions. These toppings add layers of flavor and texture, turning a simple soup into a delicious restaurant-style loaded potato soup that feels both cozy and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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There are many reasons why this loaded potato soup recipe is a favorite for home cooks. It is creamy, comforting, and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Rich Creamy Texture
One of the best things about this creamy loaded potato soup is its smooth and velvety texture. The combination of soft potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and cream creates a thick and satisfying soup that feels warm and comforting in every bite. It’s the kind of hearty potato soup that instantly makes you feel cozy.
One-Pot Meal
This easy loaded potato soup recipe is made in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more convenience. Everything cooks together in a single pot, allowing the flavors of the bacon, potatoes, broth, and cheese to blend perfectly into a delicious homemade potato soup from scratch.
Simple Everyday Ingredients
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make the best loaded potato soup recipe. Basic items like potatoes, bacon, onion, garlic, broth, milk, and cheddar cheese come together to create a flavorful comfort food soup that tastes like something you would get at a restaurant.
Perfect for Winter Dinners
A bowl of hot loaded baked potato soup is ideal for cold evenings. This thick and creamy potato soup recipe is filling, warm, and comforting, making it one of the best meals for chilly weather.
Customizable Toppings
Another reason people love loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese is the toppings. You can add crispy bacon, sour cream, green onions, extra cheese, or chives to create your own restaurant-style loaded potato soup just the way you like it.
Ingredients for Loaded Potato Soup
To make this creamy loaded potato soup, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that work together to create a rich and comforting flavor. These ingredients are commonly used in the best loaded potato soup recipe and help produce that classic restaurant-style loaded potato soup taste at home.
Main Ingredients
These ingredients form the base of this homemade loaded potato soup.
Russet Potatoes
Russet potatoes are perfect for a thick potato soup recipe because they contain more starch. This helps create a naturally creamy potato soup texture.
Bacon
Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor that makes loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese so delicious. It also adds a nice crunchy topping.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the soup and adds rich flavor. It’s an essential ingredient in most loaded baked potato soup recipes.
Onion
Onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup base.
Garlic
Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste and brings a warm savory aroma to this comfort food soup.
Chicken Broth
Chicken broth helps cook the potatoes while adding a rich savory flavor that balances the creamy ingredients.
Milk or Heavy Cream
Milk or cream gives the soup its smooth texture. Using cream will make the creamy loaded potato soup thicker and richer.
Optional Toppings
Toppings are what make loaded potato soup truly special. They add texture, flavor, and visual appeal.
Sour Cream
Adds a tangy flavor and extra creaminess.
Green Onions
Provide a fresh and slightly sharp flavor that balances the richness.
Chives
Chopped chives add color and a mild onion flavor.
Extra Bacon
Extra crispy bacon makes the soup even more satisfying.
Shredded Cheese
Sprinkling more cheddar cheese on top creates the ultimate cheesy potato soup experience.
Ingredient Notes
Best Potatoes for Potato Soup
The best potatoes for loaded potato soup are Russet potatoes because they break down easily and help thicken the soup. Yukon Gold potatoes can also work if you prefer a slightly buttery flavor.
Cheese Recommendations
Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better than pre-packaged cheese. It helps create a smoother creamy potato soup recipe without clumps.
Bacon Options
Traditional pork bacon works best, but you can also use turkey bacon for a lighter version of this homemade potato soup.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need special equipment to make this easy loaded potato soup recipe, but a few basic tools will make the cooking process easier.
Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
A large pot is important for cooking the potatoes and broth evenly when making potato soup from scratch.
Cutting Board
A sturdy cutting board helps you safely chop potatoes, onion, and bacon.
Potato Masher
A potato masher helps create the perfect thick texture for this creamy loaded potato soup without making it overly smooth.
Immersion Blender (Optional)
An immersion blender can be used if you want a smoother homemade potato soup, but it’s optional.
Ladle
A ladle makes it easy to serve this warm and comforting loaded baked potato soup into bowls.
Choosing the Best Potatoes for Soup
The type of potatoes you choose can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your loaded potato soup. Some potatoes create a thicker soup, while others keep their shape and add a buttery taste. Choosing the right one helps you achieve the perfect creamy potato soup recipe.
Russet Potatoes
Russet potatoes are the most popular choice for loaded baked potato soup. They contain a high amount of starch, which helps naturally thicken the soup as the potatoes cook and break down. This makes them ideal for creating a thick and creamy potato soup with a smooth texture.
Yukon Gold Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes have a naturally buttery flavor and a slightly lower starch content. They hold their shape better than russet potatoes, which means the soup may have more potato chunks. They are still great for homemade potato soup, especially if you prefer a slightly creamy but textured soup.
Texture Comparison
Russet potatoes break down more easily, which creates a thicker creamy loaded potato soup. Yukon Gold potatoes stay firmer and give the soup a more chunky texture. Many cooks combine both to balance creaminess and texture in their best loaded potato soup recipe.
Which Potatoes Make Soup Creamier
If your goal is a rich restaurant-style loaded potato soup, russet potatoes usually work best. Their natural starch helps make the soup thicker without needing extra thickeners, giving you a perfect comfort food soup.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Loaded Potato Soup
Making loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese is simple when you follow a few easy steps. This easy loaded potato soup recipe uses basic ingredients and one pot to create a warm and satisfying meal.
Step 1 Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. As the bacon cooks, it releases flavorful fat that will add depth to your creamy potato soup.
Render the Fat
Allow the bacon to cook slowly so it becomes crispy and releases its fat. This bacon fat will be used to cook the aromatics and enhance the flavor of the homemade loaded potato soup.
Reserve Bacon for Topping
Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pot and place it on a paper towel. Set it aside so it can be used later as a topping for your loaded potato soup.
Step 2 Sauté Aromatics
With the bacon fat still in the pot, add chopped onion and cook for a few minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant.
Onion
The onion creates a flavorful base that adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
Garlic
Add minced garlic and cook briefly until aromatic. Garlic helps enhance the savory flavor of this comfort food soup.
Step 3 Cook the Potatoes
Add peeled and diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth.
Add Broth
The broth helps cook the potatoes while adding savory flavor to the homemade potato soup from scratch.
Simmer Until Soft
Allow the soup to simmer until the potatoes become tender and easy to mash. This step builds the base of the best loaded potato soup recipe.
Step 4 Mash or Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are soft, you can begin creating the texture of your creamy loaded potato soup.
Potato Masher vs Blender
A potato masher works well if you want a thick soup with some chunks. If you prefer a smoother creamy potato soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
Step 5 Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat before adding dairy ingredients.
Avoid Curdling
Adding milk or heavy cream slowly helps prevent curdling and keeps the soup smooth.
Stir Gently
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently until it melts into the soup. This creates the rich flavor that makes loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese so popular.
Step 6 Add Toppings and Serve
Now it’s time to finish your restaurant-style loaded potato soup.
Bacon
Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over each bowl.
Cheese
Add extra shredded cheddar for a cheesy finish.
Chives
Top with fresh chives or green onions for color and flavor.
Serve the soup warm and enjoy this rich and hearty loaded baked potato soup that’s perfect for cozy meals.
How to Make Loaded Potato Soup Extra Creamy
If you want your loaded potato soup to taste like a rich restaurant-style loaded potato soup, a few simple techniques can make a big difference. These tips help create a thick and smooth creamy potato soup recipe without making the soup heavy or gummy.
Use Starchy Potatoes
Starchy potatoes like russet potatoes are the best choice for a creamy loaded potato soup. As they cook, they release natural starch that helps thicken the soup and create a rich texture. This is why many chefs prefer russet potatoes when making loaded baked potato soup.
Mash Instead of Fully Blending
For the best texture, lightly mash some of the potatoes instead of blending the entire soup. A potato masher creates a thick base while leaving small chunks of potato for a hearty bite. This method keeps the soup feeling like a true homemade potato soup.
Add Cream at the End
Always add milk or heavy cream near the end of cooking. This helps keep the dairy smooth and prevents curdling. Adding cream slowly while stirring creates the perfect texture for a thick and creamy potato soup recipe.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts more smoothly than packaged shredded cheese. It blends easily into the soup and helps create the rich flavor that makes loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese so comforting.
Pro Chef Tips for Perfect Potato Soup
Even though loaded potato soup is simple to make, a few professional cooking tips can help you create the best loaded potato soup recipe every time.
Balance Starch and Liquid
The key to a great creamy potato soup is balancing the potatoes and broth. Too many potatoes can make the soup too thick, while too much liquid can make it thin. Adjusting this balance helps create the perfect comfort food soup.
Avoid Over-Blending Potatoes
Potatoes contain a lot of starch. If you blend them too much, the soup can become gluey instead of creamy. For a better texture, lightly mash the potatoes when making homemade loaded potato soup.
Season in Layers
Adding salt and seasoning at different stages of cooking helps build deeper flavor. This technique is often used by chefs to make a more flavorful loaded baked potato soup.
Control Soup Thickness
If your soup becomes too thick, simply add a little more broth or milk. If it’s too thin, mash a few extra potatoes into the soup to naturally thicken it.
How Restaurants Make Loaded Potato Soup So Rich
Many restaurants serve loaded potato soup that tastes incredibly creamy and flavorful. The secret is a few simple techniques that add richness and depth to the restaurant-style loaded potato soup.
Using Heavy Cream
Restaurants often use heavy cream instead of milk. This creates a thicker texture and gives the soup a richer taste that makes the creamy loaded potato soup feel extra indulgent.
Roux Thickening Technique
Some chefs prepare a small roux, which is made by cooking butter and flour together. The roux is added to the soup to help thicken the broth and create a silky texture in loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese.
Slow Simmering
Allowing the soup to simmer slowly helps the flavors blend together. The potatoes soften, the broth becomes richer, and the result is a deeper flavor that makes the best loaded potato soup recipe taste even better.
How to Thicken Potato Soup
Sometimes loaded potato soup can turn out thinner than expected. Luckily, there are several easy ways to thicken your creamy potato soup recipe while keeping the flavor rich and smooth. These simple methods are often used in homemade potato soup from scratch and help create that thick, comforting texture people love.
Potato Starch
One of the easiest ways to thicken loaded baked potato soup is by using the natural starch from the potatoes themselves. As the potatoes cook and break down, they release starch that thickens the broth. Mashing a few potatoes directly in the pot helps make the creamy loaded potato soup thicker without adding extra ingredients.
Roux
A roux is a mixture of butter and flour cooked together. It is commonly used in soups and sauces to create a smooth, thick texture. Adding a small roux to your loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese helps give the soup a rich and silky consistency.
Cornstarch Slurry
Another quick method is using a cornstarch slurry, which is simply cornstarch mixed with cold water. When added to the simmering soup, it thickens the liquid quickly. This works well if your thick potato soup recipe needs a little extra body.
Extra Mashed Potatoes
Adding extra mashed potatoes is a natural way to thicken homemade loaded potato soup. This method keeps the soup creamy and enhances the potato flavor without changing the overall taste.
Loaded Potato Soup Variations
One of the best things about loaded potato soup is how flexible the recipe can be. You can easily adjust ingredients and cooking methods to create new flavors while still enjoying the comforting taste of this hearty potato soup.
Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup
A slow cooker loaded potato soup is perfect for busy days. Simply add potatoes, broth, onion, and seasoning to the slow cooker and let everything cook slowly for several hours. Once the potatoes are soft, stir in cheese, cream, and bacon to create a rich creamy potato soup.
Instant Pot Loaded Potato Soup
If you want a faster version, an Instant Pot loaded potato soup is a great option. The pressure cooker speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to make a thick and flavorful homemade potato soup in less time.
Vegetarian Potato Soup
For a meat-free version, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This still creates a satisfying creamy potato soup recipe while making the dish suitable for vegetarians.
Healthy Light Potato Soup
A lighter version of loaded potato soup can be made by using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reducing the cheese. The result is a healthy potato soup that still feels comforting and flavorful.
Spicy Loaded Potato Soup
If you enjoy bold flavors, try adding diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce. This variation creates a spicy loaded potato soup that adds warmth and extra flavor to the dish.
Beer Cheese Potato Soup
A beer cheese potato soup adds a rich and slightly smoky flavor by combining cheddar cheese with a small amount of beer. This variation creates a deeper taste that works well with the classic loaded baked potato soup ingredients.
Best Toppings for Loaded Potato Soup
The toppings are what truly make loaded potato soup special. Adding a few extra ingredients on top turns a simple bowl of soup into a delicious restaurant-style loaded potato soup.
Crispy Bacon
Crispy bacon bits add a smoky flavor and crunchy texture that perfectly complements the creamy soup.
Cheddar Cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese melts slightly on top of the hot soup and enhances the rich flavor of this cheesy potato soup.
Chives
Fresh chopped chives add color and a mild onion flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
Green Onions
Green onions provide a fresh and slightly sharp taste that brightens the dish.
Sour Cream
A spoonful of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy flavor that pairs well with loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese.
Crispy Onions
Crispy fried onions add extra crunch and make the soup even more satisfying.
These toppings allow you to customize your best loaded potato soup recipe and create a bowl that is rich, flavorful, and full of texture.
What to Serve with Loaded Potato Soup
A warm bowl of loaded potato soup is already rich and satisfying, but pairing it with the right side dishes can turn it into a complete meal. These simple sides balance the creamy texture of this comfort food soup and make the meal even more enjoyable.
Garlic Bread
Warm garlic bread pairs perfectly with creamy loaded potato soup. The crispy bread is great for dipping into the thick and flavorful broth.
Crusty Bread
A slice of fresh crusty bread is another classic option. Its crunchy exterior and soft inside complement the smooth texture of homemade potato soup.
Dinner Rolls
Soft dinner rolls are perfect if you want a lighter side. They soak up the creamy broth of this loaded baked potato soup beautifully.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup. The combination of creamy soup and crunchy salad makes a satisfying meal.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese. The melted cheese and crispy bread make the meal even more indulgent.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Potato Soup
One of the reasons people love loaded potato soup is that it fits perfectly into many occasions throughout the year. This hearty potato soup can be enjoyed in several cozy and fun ways.
Cozy Winter Comfort Meal
During cold months, a bowl of hot loaded potato soup is the perfect winter comfort food. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it ideal for warming up on chilly evenings.
Game Day Soup
This creamy potato soup recipe is also great for game day gatherings. You can serve it in large bowls or even small cups with toppings like bacon, cheese, and chives so guests can customize their soup.
Holiday Dinner Starter
A small bowl of restaurant-style loaded potato soup makes a wonderful starter for holiday meals. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Weeknight Family Dinner
Because it’s simple and filling, homemade loaded potato soup is also perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Pair it with bread or salad for an easy family meal.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips
If you enjoy preparing meals in advance, loaded potato soup works well for meal prep. With a few simple tips, you can keep this creamy potato soup fresh and ready to enjoy later.
Batch Cooking
You can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch of homemade potato soup from scratch. This is helpful if you want leftovers for the week.
Freezing Soup
Many people freeze loaded potato soup for later. For best results, allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. Keep in mind that soups with cream may slightly change texture after freezing, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Reheating Tips
When reheating creamy loaded potato soup, warm it slowly over low heat while stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore the smooth texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of your loaded potato soup so you can enjoy leftovers without losing quality.
How to Store Potato Soup
Place leftover loaded baked potato soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator once it has cooled. This helps keep the soup fresh and prevents it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.
How Long Potato Soup Lasts
Stored properly, homemade potato soup usually lasts about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Always check the soup for freshness before reheating.
Best Way to Reheat Potato Soup
The best way to reheat creamy loaded potato soup is slowly on the stovetop over low heat. Stir the soup gently to prevent sticking and add a small amount of milk or broth if it becomes too thick. This helps maintain the smooth texture of the best loaded potato soup recipe.
Common Mistakes When Making Potato Soup
Even though loaded potato soup is a simple and comforting dish, a few small mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Avoiding these common errors will help you create the best loaded potato soup recipe with a rich, smooth consistency every time.
Using the Wrong Potatoes
The type of potato you choose plays a big role in the texture of your creamy potato soup. Low-starch potatoes may stay firm and prevent the soup from thickening properly. For a thick and creamy loaded baked potato soup, russet potatoes are usually the best option because they release natural starch while cooking.
Over-Blending Potatoes
Blending the soup too much can cause the potatoes to release excess starch, which can turn your homemade potato soup into a gluey or gummy texture. For the best results, lightly mash the potatoes instead of fully blending them when making loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese.
Adding Cheese Too Early
Cheese should be added near the end of cooking. If cheddar cheese is added while the soup is still boiling, it can separate or become grainy. Stir the cheese in slowly at low heat to keep your creamy loaded potato soup smooth and rich.
Not Seasoning Enough
Potatoes naturally absorb a lot of flavor, so proper seasoning is important. Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings gradually while cooking your homemade loaded potato soup from scratch. This helps build deeper flavor and ensures the soup tastes balanced and delicious.
Nutrition Information
A bowl of loaded potato soup is rich and satisfying, making it a great comfort food soup for cozy meals. While exact nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients, here is a general idea of what you can expect from a serving of creamy loaded potato soup.
Calories
A typical serving of loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese contains about 350–450 calories, depending on the amount of cheese, bacon, and cream used.
Protein
Thanks to ingredients like bacon, cheese, and milk, a serving of homemade potato soup usually provides around 12–15 grams of protein.
Carbohydrates (Carbs)
Since potatoes are the main ingredient, loaded baked potato soup typically contains 30–40 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Fat
The fat content mainly comes from bacon, cheddar cheese, and cream, which contribute about 18–25 grams of fat per serving in most creamy potato soup recipes.
Even though it is a rich dish, you can make a lighter version of loaded potato soup by reducing the cheese, using low-fat milk, or adding extra vegetables.
FAQs About Easy Loaded Potato Soup
What potatoes are best for potato soup?
The best potatoes for potato soup are usually russet potatoes because they contain more starch. This starch helps naturally thicken the soup and creates the rich texture people expect from creamy loaded potato soup. Russet potatoes break down easily while cooking, which makes them ideal for a thick potato soup recipe.
Another good option is Yukon Gold potatoes. They have a slightly buttery flavor and hold their shape better in soup. Many cooks combine russet and Yukon Gold potatoes to create the perfect balance of creaminess and texture in loaded potato soup.
How do you thicken potato soup?
There are several easy ways to thicken loaded potato soup while keeping it smooth and flavorful.
- Mash some of the potatoes in the soup to release natural starch.
- Add a small roux made from butter and flour.
- Use a cornstarch slurry mixed with water for quick thickening.
- Stir in extra mashed potatoes to naturally thicken the soup.
These methods work well for creating a rich and satisfying creamy potato soup recipe without changing the flavor.
Can potato soup be frozen?
Yes, loaded potato soup can be frozen, but soups with cream may change texture slightly after thawing. For best results, allow the homemade potato soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers.
When reheating frozen loaded baked potato soup, warm it slowly on the stovetop and add a splash of milk or broth to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I make potato soup without bacon?
Absolutely. You can easily make a vegetarian potato soup by skipping the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the potatoes, cheese, cream, onion, and garlic.
Many people enjoy this version as a lighter alternative to loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese, while still keeping the comforting taste.
Why is my potato soup gummy?
If your creamy potato soup turns gummy, it usually means the potatoes were over-blended. Potatoes release a lot of starch when blended too much, which can create a sticky texture.
To prevent this, mash the potatoes gently instead of blending the entire soup. This technique helps maintain the perfect texture for homemade loaded potato soup while keeping the soup thick and creamy.
Recipe Card – Loaded Potato Soup Recipe
Course: Soup, Main CourseCuisine: American Comfort FoodDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes30
minutes350
kcalThis loaded potato soup recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes. It’s an easy comfort food soup that tastes just like a restaurant-style loaded potato soup, perfect for cozy dinners and family meals.
Ingredients
6 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk or heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional Toppings
Crispy bacon bits
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped chives or green onions
Sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the pot.
- Cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving a small amount of bacon fat in the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes become tender.
- Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a thicker creamy potato soup texture.
- Stir in the milk or heavy cream and gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring gently until melted.
- Mix in the sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese in bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and chives.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the creamiest texture since they release more starch while cooking.
- Use russet potatoes for the creamiest texture since they release more starch while cooking.
- Always add cheese at low heat to prevent the soup from becoming grainy.
- For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- You can easily turn this into slow cooker loaded potato soup or Instant Pot potato soup for quicker preparation.
- You can easily turn this into slow cooker loaded potato soup or Instant Pot potato soup for quicker preparation.
Final Thoughts
This loaded potato soup recipe is the perfect combination of creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and comforting flavors. With simple ingredients like potatoes, bacon, cheddar cheese, and cream, you can easily make a delicious homemade potato soup that tastes just like a restaurant-style loaded potato soup.
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can experiment with different toppings, add extra vegetables, or try variations like slow cooker loaded potato soup or spicy potato soup for a new twist.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy winter dinner, a family meal, or a comforting lunch, this best loaded potato soup recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a warm bowl of creamy loaded potato soup made right in your own kitchen.