Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, then this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is just what you need. Each spoonful is creamy and hearty, filled with tender potatoes and melty cheddar cheese. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup always brings smiles and satisfaction.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time, so all you need to do is heat it up! Trust me, once you’ve tasted this comforting bowl of goodness, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious soup ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill on a cold day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is as easy as pie! You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry or local grocery store. These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying dish.

For the Soup

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (you can use turkey bacon or veggie bacon)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to tweak it according to your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or veggie bacon for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use non-dairy cheese alternatives.

How to Make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent. This step is crucial because it brings out the sweetness of the onions. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Next, add your diced potatoes along with chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15 to 20 minutes until those potatoes are fork-tender. This is where all those flavors start mingling beautifully.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Once your potatoes are tender, grab an immersion blender and blend until you reach your desired texture—smooth or slightly chunky works beautifully! If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer batches to a stand blender. Just remember to let steam escape!

Step 4: Add Creaminess

Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream into the blended soup. Keep cooking over low heat until the cheese fully melts and everything is heated through—about 5 minutes. Taste it before serving; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference!

Step 5: Serve with Toppings

Ladle your hearty soup into bowls. Top each bowl with crumbled bacon (or your chosen alternative), additional shredded cheese, and chopped green onions. This final touch adds flavor and color that makes each bite irresistible!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this comforting bowl of loaded baked potato goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Making the perfect comforting loaded baked potato soup is all about little adjustments that elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup turns out deliciously every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.
• Don’t rush the sauté: Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are golden brown brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the overall flavor of your soup.
• Adjust thickness to preference: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer before blending. You can also add less broth if you like it creamy!
• Experiment with cheeses: While sharp cheddar is classic, try mixing in other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added complexity and creaminess.
• Top with your favorites: Personalize each bowl with toppings beyond bacon—consider crispy chickpeas or diced avocado for extra flair!

How to Serve Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving this comforting loaded baked potato soup is a chance to get creative and impress your family or guests. Here are a few suggestions on how to present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that brightens up the bowl.
• Crumbled tortilla chips: For a crunchy texture contrast, sprinkle crumbled tortilla chips on top; they add an exciting twist.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A swirl of high-quality olive oil can enhance richness and give an inviting sheen to the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or breadsticks makes an excellent accompaniment for dipping into your creamy soup.
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a colorful side that balances flavors while providing additional nutrients.
• Cheese quesadillas: Quick to make, cheese quesadillas are perfect for dipping and pair wonderfully with the creamy texture of the soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy evening filled with warmth and comfort from your loaded baked potato soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to savor during busy weeks. You can whip up a big batch and store it for those nights when you crave something warm and hearty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• For easier thawing, consider portioning out individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup!

Can I make Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy plant-based bacon or roasted chickpeas for a similar crunch.

How do I thicken my Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup?

If you’d like your soup thicker, try adding more potatoes or blending some of the soup. You can also mix in a bit of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) while cooking.

Can I use other types of cheese in this soup?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Comforting Loaded Baked Potato Soup as much as I do! It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days and brings a taste of home with every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!