Growing up on the beautiful island of Crete, I spent countless afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen. She had this magical way of turning simple ingredients into dishes that felt like a warm hug. One chilly winter evening, I decided to recreate a classic comfort dish I’d fallen in love with during a trip to the US Loaded Baked Potato Soup. The creamy texture, the crispy bacon bits, the gooey melted cheese, and that hint of green onion it all reminded me of sitting around a table with family, sharing stories and laughter.
I love making Loaded Baked Potato Soup because it’s simple, hearty, and always brings people together. You don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques just a few pantry staples, some love, and a willingness to make a little mess in the kitchen (trust me, it’s worth it!). Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will make your evenings feel warm, cozy, and absolutely delicious.
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is one of those recipes that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rich and creamy without being heavy, and the toppings let you get creative. I like to sprinkle extra cheese, bacon, and green onions for that ultimate comfort-food experience. Even if you’ve never made a soup from scratch before, this one is incredibly forgiving and always impressive to serve to friends and family.
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup 🥔🧈🧀
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
- Cook the bacon: In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté aromatics: Add butter, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook the potatoes: Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Mash slightly: Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some potatoes directly in the pot for a creamy texture while keeping chunks for texture.
- Add dairy: Stir in milk (or half-and-half), sour cream, and 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes on low heat until cheese melts and soup is creamy.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust thickness with more milk or broth if needed.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, remaining cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
- Add extra toppings like chives, paprika, or a dollop of sour cream for variety.
Recipe Card for Loaded Baked Potato Soup ⏱️🧺👩🍳📝🥗
⏱️ Time Cook: 35 minutes
🧺 Ingredients:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled & diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken/vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Cook bacon; set aside.
- Sauté onion & garlic in butter.
- Add potatoes & broth; simmer 15–20 min.
- Mash slightly; stir in milk, sour cream & cheese.
- Season; serve with toppings.
📝 Notes:
- For extra creaminess, use heavy cream.
- Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
🥗 Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: ~350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
Short 100-Word Version of the Recipe 🥔
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is creamy, hearty, and full of flavor! Start by cooking bacon until crispy, then sauté onion and garlic in butter. Add diced potatoes and chicken broth, simmering until tender. Mash slightly and stir in milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot topped with crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chopped green onions. Perfect for cozy nights, this soup is easy to make, comforting, and kid-friendly. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a full, satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup is like bringing a little piece of home to your table. It’s simple, customizable, and full of comforting flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup warms the heart as much as the belly. Remember, the best meals come with a little love and a sprinkle of creativity. Enjoy every spoonful, share it with those you love, and make a memory with each bowl