Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup is a warm and creamy dish that kinda feels like you dug into a loaded baked potato with a spoon . It’s got soft chunks of potato , a rich broth that coats your tongue and yummy toppings like cheese and bacon . You can serve it on a chilly evening or just when you wanna feel all cozy and full . Its simple but filling goodness makes it a go-to for family dinners or quick meals on busy nights
Comfort food means those meals that hug you from the inside out . They remind you of home , or of times when life felt easier . Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup fits right in — it tastes familiar and rich , and it makes people smile when they see it on the table .
What really makes this soup stand out is how easy it is to whip up , even if you’re cooking for a bunch of folks . You just need some basic ingredients , a big pot and a little time . As you scroll down , you’ll find its story , what goes into it , how to make it step by step , plus tips for serving and storing your leftovers . Ready to dive in ? Let’s get started
1. What is Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup ?
Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup is a comforting bowl of all the best parts of a baked potato , but in soup form . You’ll find tender potato pieces , a savory broth , creamy milk or cream , and a pile of toppings like cheese , bacon bits and green onions . Some folks like to stir in sour cream or extra spices , while others mix in different cheeses to switch up the taste . Over time , cooks have put their own spin on it , so you might see versions with jalapeños or herbs too .
1.1 Definition and Overview
At its core , this soup starts with russet or Idaho potatoes that get peeled and diced . They simmer in broth until soft , then you mash or blend some of them to get that thick , silkу texture . The rest stay chunky so you still get bites of potato . Adding cream ( or half-and-half ) makes it extra lush . Then you sprinkle on cheese , bacon , maybe chives — whatever you like best .
1.2 History of Baked Pоtato Soup
The idea of baked potato soup popped up in farm kitchens where potatoes were everywhere . People wanted to use up spuds and make a filling meal , so they turned baked potato flavors into a soup . It really caught on in North America , where comfort food is a big deal . From basic peasant recipes it grew into those restaurant-style bowls you see now , with tons of toppings and fancy twists .
2. Ingredients for Perfect Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup
If you wanna nail this soup , grab these must-have ingredients:
2.1 Essential Ingredients
- Potatoes : The star of the show ; give you body and that soft potato bite.
- Broth : Chicken or veggie broth adds depth and enough liquid to cook the potatoes.
- Cream : Heavy cream or half-and-half makes it smooth and rich.
- Onions & Garlic : Sautéed first to add flavor layers that play nice with potatoes.
Each part has its job : potatoes give texture , broth brings flavor , cream makes it thick and silky , and those aromatics give brightness .
2.2 Optional Add-Ins
To make it even tastier , try tossing in stuff like :
- Cheese : Sharp cheddar , gouda or any you love for extra richness.
- Bacon : Crispy bits for that crunchy , salty pop.
- Green Onions/Chives : A fresh green touch that cuts the creaminess.
You can also get creative with mushrooms , roasted garlic or veggies in season .
2.3 Ingredient Substitutions
Got diet needs ? No biggie . Use gluten-free broth if needed , swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream , or use almond/oat milk plus a bit of cornstarch to thicken . That way everyone can enjoy a bowl .
3. Directions: How to Make Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup
Follow these steps to get your soup on the table :
3.1 Preparation Steps
First , wash and peel the potatoes , then cut them into even cubes so they cook at the same speed . Chop your onions and garlic , get the broth measured out and have your cream ready .
3.2 Cooking Directions
- Cook aromatics : Sauté onions and garlic in a big pot until soft and fragrant .
- Add potatoes & broth : Toss in the diced potatoes , pour broth over them and bring to a boil . Then lower the heat and simmer until potatoes are tender , about 15–20 minutes .
- Blend or mash : Mash some of the potatoes right in the pot or use an immersion blender for a smoother soup . Keep some chunks for texture .
- Stir in cream : Pour in your heavy cream ( or milk sub ) and mix well . If it’s too thick , add more broth ; if too thin , let it simmer a bit to reduce .
- Season : Taste and add salt , pepper or other spices until it’s just right for you .
3.3 Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Adjust thickness by playing with broth or cream amounts . Season at different stages so the flavors layer up nicely . Don’t be shy to tweak it — this soup loves personalization .
4. Nutritional Information
4.1 Caloric Content and Macronutrients
A typical serving has about 350–400 calories , depending on how much cream and bacon you use . You’ll get roughly :
- Fat : 20–25 g
- Carbs : 30–35 g
- Protein : 6–8 g
4.2 Health Benefits and Downsides
Potatoes bring vitamin C , potassium and fiber , but the creamy base can be heavy . Enjoy in moderation or swap lower-fat dairy to lighten it up .
5. Serving Suggestions
5.1 Ideal Accompaniments
Serve with crusty bread , a green salad or even a sandwich to make it a full meal .
5.2 Presentation Tips
Use rustic bowls , then top each serving with shredded cheese , a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions for color .
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
6.1 Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days . For long term , freeze in portions — just cool it first so it doesn’t get soggy .
6.2 How to Reheat Properly
Microwave in short bursts , stirring in between , or warm on the stove over medium heat . Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickened too much .
7. FAQs About Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup
Can I make it ahead ? Yeah , you can prep it and store it before you serve . Just reheat when you’re ready .
How do I thicken it more ? Mash extra potatoes in the pot , blend some with the soup or stir in a cornstarch slurry .
What makes it more filling ? Add cooked chicken , beans or lentils for extra protein .
Is a vegan version possible ? Sure thing — use veggie broth and swap cream for coconut or nut-based cream .
Leftover baked potatoes : Chop them up and toss them in , they work great and save time .
Conclusion
Loaded Baked Pоtato Soup is simple to make , super comforting and totally customizable . Give it a try at home and watch everyone dig in . It’s a perfect meal for cold days or whenever you need a little pick-me-up .
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 potato peeler
- 1 cutting board
- 1 whisk
- 1 ladle
- 4 serving bowls
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced About 2 pounds.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth For vegetarian version, substitute with vegetable broth.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Reserve half for topping.
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup sour cream For topping.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash or blend the soup until it reaches your desired level of creaminess. You can leave some chunks for texture if you prefer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and continue to heat the soup for an additional 5 minutes, but do not let it boil.
- Before serving, mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Reserve the rest for topping.
- Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with crumbled bacon, remaining cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions.
