There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, creamy bowl of loaded baked potato soup on a chilly day. Packed with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth, this dish feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in some well-deserved “me time,” this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Perfect Comfort Food

This soup combines the hearty flavors of a baked potato with the creamy richness of a soup, creating the ultimate comfort meal.

2. Easy to Customize

Love extra cheese? Add more! Prefer your potatoes chunkier? Keep them as-is. This recipe is all about making it your own.

3. One-Pot Wonder

Save on cleanup! You can make this entire soup in just one pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose
Bacon	6 strips	Adds smoky, crispy flavor
Onion (chopped)	½ medium	Enhances savory depth
Russet potatoes	4 large	The heart of the soup
Flour	¼ cup	Thickens the soup
Whole milk	4 cups	Provides creamy richness
Chicken broth	1 cup	Adds a savory base
Garlic (minced)	1 clove	Boosts flavor
Cheddar cheese	¾ cup (or more)	Melty, cheesy goodness
Sour cream	¾ cup (or more)	Adds tang and creaminess
Scallions (chopped)	To taste	Fresh garnish
Salt & Pepper	To taste	Balances and enhances flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

1. Cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears or a knife.
2. In a soup pot, fry the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

1. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.

Step 3: Make the Roux

1. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring the flour dissolves completely.

Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Broth

1. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and minced garlic to the pot.
2. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot slightly, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Mash and Thicken

1. Once the potatoes are fall-apart tender, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This step thickens the soup while leaving satisfying chunks.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches

1. Stir in the sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, and most of the bacon, saving some for garnish.
2. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top each bowl with scallions, the reserved bacon, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.

Tips for Making the Best Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Choose the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup naturally.

2. Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat

Using bacon fat to sauté the onions adds a smoky depth of flavor.

3. Adjust the Thickness

For a thicker soup, mash more potatoes. Prefer it thinner? Add a splash of chicken broth or milk.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Version

• Replace the bacon with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

2. Spicy Kick

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for some heat.

3. Extra Cheesy

• Stir in additional cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a richer flavor.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	320
Protein	14g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	15g

FAQs About Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes! The flavors deepen when reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely. Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding milk or broth if needed.

3. How Do I Make It Gluten-Free?

Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry.

4. What Toppings Work Best?

Beyond scallions, try crispy onions, diced chives, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.

5. Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Yes! Sharp cheddar is classic, but Swiss or Pepper Jack would add unique flavors.

6. How Do I Keep the Soup from Being Too Salty?

Use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust seasoning gradually.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Soup Recipe

This Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, cozying up on a cold day, or impressing guests, it’s sure to be a hit.

Try It Today

Gather your ingredients and whip up this delicious soup tonight. Don’t forget to share your results with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

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