Loaded Potato Soup

Ever craved a cozy bowl of soup that wraps you in warmth like a soft blanket?

This Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy, hearty, and totally satisfying dish that brings all the richness of baked potatoes to your bowl. Imagine perfectly cooked potatoes, melting cheese, and crispy bacon bits – every spoonful is a hug that keeps the cold at bay. Plus, it’s quick and made in just one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your cozy evening.

Why make this recipe

You’ll adore this Loaded Potato Soup for so many reasons! First off, it’s a family-friendly meal that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist (seriously, who says no to cheese?). Secondly, it’s incredibly affordable — all you need are some everyday ingredients and you’re good to go. Lastly, the cleanup is a breeze! One pot, no fuss – because honestly, who wants to do a heap of dishes after dinner? 😅

Ingredients:

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

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bacon bits for garnish

Directions:

Let’s get cooking with these easy steps:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Using a potato masher, mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for consistency.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and bacon bits.

How to make Loaded Potato Soup (Overview)

Making this Loaded Potato Soup is as easy as pie (or should I say potato?). First, you’ll cook the onion and garlic to bring out their flavors. Then just toss in the potatoes and broth — voila, your soup base is bubbling! Don’t skip mashing some of those potatoes; it’s essential for that creamy consistency we all love. After a splash of cream and a shower of cheese, your soup transforms into a warm hug in a bowl. Quick tip: keep your heat low when adding the cheese to avoid clumping!

How to serve Loaded Potato Soup

Serve this soup in vibrant bowls that show off the creamy texture – it’s like a canvas for gold melted cheese! Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits and fresh green onions on top for a pop of color and crunch. Pair it with a warm, crusty bread for dipping, and your kitchen will smell like heaven. The aroma of garlic and cheese will have everyone flocking to the table!

How to store Loaded Potato Soup

This Loaded Potato Soup keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just pop it in an airtight container and you’re set! If you want to make ahead, it freezes beautifully, too. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. For reheating, bring it back to a gentle simmer on the stove — add a splash of cream if it’s a little thick!

Tips to make Loaded Potato Soup

• Use different potatoes: Russets work great, but Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor.
• Add some spice: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper for a kick.
• Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for milk or a non-dairy option to lighten it up.
• Tweak the toppings: Try crispy leeks or a dollop of guacamole for a fun twist.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Let those potatoes get soft; it’s crucial for perfect texture!

Variation

Feel like mixing things up? Make this Loaded Potato Soup vegan by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth, using coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and omitting bacon or replacing it with vegan bacon bits. You can also add broccoli or cauliflower for an extra veggie boost — yum! 🌱

FAQs

Can I make Loaded Potato Soup in advance?
Absolutely! It holds up well in the fridge for about 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for later use.

What can I use as a thickener?
If you prefer an even thicker soup, try adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or use instant potato flakes.

Is Loaded Potato Soup gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you check your chicken broth and cheese packaging for gluten, this recipe can be naturally gluten-free.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Loaded Potato Soup

A creamy, hearty, and totally satisfying soup that brings all the richness of baked potatoes to your bowl.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 large large potatoes, peeled and diced Russets or Yukon Golds work well.
• 1 medium medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth Ensure it's gluten-free if needed.
• 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with a non-dairy option.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For garnish.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Bacon bits for garnish Optional, can substitute with vegan bacon bits.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Using a potato masher, mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture, leaving some chunks for consistency.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and bacon bits.

Notes

This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and can be frozen for later use. For reheating, bring it back to a gentle simmer and add a splash of cream if it’s too thick. Don't rush the cooking; let those potatoes get soft for perfect texture!