Comfort in a Bowl

Imagine sinking into a bowls of creamy goodness after a long day. That’s right! Loaded Baked Potato Soup hits all the right notes for chilly nights. This comforting soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, you’ll be nestled in warm, cheesy bliss in no time!

Why Make This Recipe

Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s both delicious and easy? Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for:

Quick Cleanup: No one likes a mountain of dishes after a long day. This soup comes together in just one pot!
Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are staples you probably already have. Your wallet will be as cozy as your stomach.
Family-Friendly Fun: Everyone adores potatoes, cheese, and bacon! Need I say more? 😄

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

4 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
4 medium russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for added flavor)
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for a lighter touch)
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
4 slices bacon (crumbled, or turkey bacon for a lighter option)
¼ cup green onions (chopped, can substitute with chives)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Just follow these easy steps:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil (or butter) in a big pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Don’t skip this part; it’s essential for flavor!
Add the Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the cubed potatoes, broth, thyme, smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper. Bring everything to a simmer.
Cook Until Tender: Cover and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender enough to be mashed with a fork.
Mash and Cream It Up: Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This is where the magic happens!
Finish with Toppings: Stir in most of the crumbled bacon and sprinkle in some green onions. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort for Chilly Nights (Overview)

Picture this: the aroma of sautéed onions fills your kitchen as you toss in all the ingredients, transforming humble potatoes into a creamy wonder. Remember, don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference! After simmering, you’ll get to mash up those potatoes, which adds the perfect texture. A final sprinkling of toppings brings this comforting dish to life.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort for Chilly Nights

Serving this soup is where the fun gets real. Imagine a steaming bowl topped with crunchy bacon, vibrant green onions, and a sprinkle of melted cheese. Pair it with warm crusty bread or a side salad to create a meal that looks as good as it smells. Just wait until it hits your taste buds — pure bliss!

How to Store Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort for Chilly Nights

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), this soup will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months! For reheating, just warm it up gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

Tips to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Creamy Comfort for Chilly Nights

Make Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance to let the flavors deepen. Trust me; it only gets better!
Swaps: Want to cut down on calories? Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and drop the bacon for a veggie delight!
Texture Trick: For a creamier consistency, blend part of the soup before adding the cheese. Smoothness guaranteed!

Variation

Feel like mixing things up? 🌶️ Try adding broccoli or cheese for a classic twist. Or, for a vegan option, substitute the broth with vegetable stock and replace heavy cream with coconut milk. You could even toss in some spicy sausage for an extra kick!

FAQs

Can I use different potatoes?
Yep! Yukon Golds add a richer flavor, but russets work just fine.

How do I make this soup spicier?
Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.

Can I freeze Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute, adding creaminess and a tangy flavor.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Gently warm on the stove and add extra broth if needed to adjust thickness.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!