If you are on the hunt for a comforting, cozy bowl that tastes like a warm hug from the inside, this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine creamy, tender potatoes simmered to perfection, enriched with sharp cheddar cheese and tangy sour cream, then topped with all the classic baked potato fixings. Every spoonful feels like a celebration of your favorite baked potato flavors, transformed into a velvety, luscious soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a little indulgence. It’s a simple recipe, yet bursting with rich, satisfying taste that never fails to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance between creamy richness, slight tang, and comforting warmth that makes this soup so addictive.
- Potatoes: Four cups of diced potatoes provide the hearty, creamy base after being tenderly simmered and lightly mashed.
- Chicken broth: Four cups to create a flavorful, savory liquid foundation that brings the whole soup together.
- Cheddar cheese: One cup of shredded cheddar adds the wonderful sharpness and gooey melt that makes every spoonful luscious.
- Sour cream: Half a cup for tangy creaminess that smooths the texture and adds a delightful twist.
- Salt & pepper: To taste, these simple seasonings elevate the natural flavors and balance richness perfectly.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Simmer the potatoes
Start by bringing your chicken broth to a gentle boil and add the diced potatoes. Let them simmer until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is where the potatoes soak up the savory broth and soften, building the hearty foundation of the soup.
Step 2: Lightly mash for a creamy texture
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or fork to lightly mash them right in the pot. Don’t overdo it – you want the soup to stay creamy but still have some potato chunks for that satisfying texture.
Step 3: Stir in cheese and sour cream
Turn the heat to low and gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup. Follow up by stirring in the sour cream, which will add a richness and tang that elevates the entire dish. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
It’s not truly a loaded baked potato soup without the perfect toppings! Sprinkle crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and extra shredded cheddar cheese on top just before serving. These garnishes add an irresistible texture contrast and punch of flavor that complete the experience.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, warm dinner rolls, or even a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Simple sides help round out the meal and soak up any extra soup you might want to savor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or individual ramekins topped with a dollop of sour cream and chives. It’s a charming way to elevate casual dining and impress guests with your presentation skills.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, making it just as delicious the next day — perfect for an easy lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
You can freeze this Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe in portions using freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon thawing because of the potatoes, but a good stir will bring it back to life. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much. Avoid microwaving for long periods to maintain the smooth, creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth will still give great flavor and makes this soup vegetarian-friendly. Just make sure your broth is well-seasoned to keep that rich taste.
Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, swap out the cheddar cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheese and coconut cream or cashew cream. The soup will still be creamy and delicious, though the flavor shifts slightly.
How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash the potatoes more thoroughly or reduce the amount of broth slightly. For a thinner soup, simply add more broth or a bit of milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Can this soup be made in a slow cooker?
It sure can! Add all ingredients (except cheese and sour cream) to slow cooker, cook on low for 4-6 hours, then mash potatoes and stir in cheese and sour cream at the end.
What other toppings work well on Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Besides bacon and green onions, try adding steamed broccoli, diced ham, chives, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for fun flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe is your ticket to the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple and stunning in flavor. Once you try this creamy, cheesy delight loaded with your favorite toppings, it’s hard to go back to plain old potato soup. Give it a go, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every spoonful of this cozy classic.
Print
Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy potato soup loaded with classic baked potato toppings — the ultimate bowl of comfort! This hearty soup combines tender potatoes simmered to perfection in chicken broth, then enriched with sharp cheddar cheese and tangy sour cream for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 4 cups potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Dice the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
- Simmer Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash Potatoes: Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot to create a thicker, creamier texture while leaving some pieces intact for heartiness.
- Add Cheese and Sour Cream: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until fully incorporated, allowing the cheese to melt completely. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with optional crumbled bacon and chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and texture.
Notes
- Garnish with bacon and green onions to add extra flavor and texture.
- For a thinner soup, add more chicken broth or water until the desired consistency is reached.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
