The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

Name: The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the comfort of a warm bowl of loaded potato soup that’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor. This recipe will quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Madison Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:13:52.502Z

This Loaded Potato Soup is a creamy delight made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and topped with cheese and green onions. Perfect for cold days and family gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting with every spoonful
Loaded with toppings for a flavorful experience
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy nights

      

A Comforting Classic

Loaded potato soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or when you're in need of a little culinary hug. This soup embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness, allowing you to indulge in a hearty bowl that satisfies both hunger and cravings for comfort food. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing for various toppings and additions that can cater to your family's preferences.

Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with crusty bread, this loaded potato soup is bound to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. The combination of tender potatoes, savory broth, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. With every spoonful, you’ll experience the perfect blend of creaminess and heartiness, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of loaded potato soup is its adaptability. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or even as a comforting dish during holiday celebrations. This soup can easily be dressed up with gourmet toppings like chives, sour cream, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for special occasions. Alternatively, you can keep it simple and serve it with your favorite bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Moreover, this soup is a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. Got some extra vegetables in the fridge? Toss them in for added nutrition and flavor! It’s also freezer-friendly, meaning you can make a big batch and save some for later, making meal prep a breeze. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Elevating Your Soup Experience

To elevate your loaded potato soup, consider experimenting with different cheeses. While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, incorporating smoked gouda or pepper jack can add a unique twist that excites the palate. You can also enhance the flavor profile by adding spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or even fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, which can complement the potatoes beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. This will not only add a kick but also create a wonderful contrast to the creaminess of the soup. Remember, the key to an outstanding loaded potato soup lies in balancing the flavors, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasonings as you go!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious loaded potato soup:

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a delicious and hearty soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your loaded potato soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. Enjoy your homemade loaded potato soup!

Enjoy your delicious potato soup with your favorite bread or crackers!

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup

To achieve the perfect creamy texture, be sure to use starchy russet potatoes. They break down nicely during cooking, lending a velvety consistency to your soup. Additionally, you can opt to leave the skins on for added texture and nutrition, giving your soup a rustic touch.

When blending the soup, an immersion blender works wonders for achieving a smooth consistency without the hassle of transferring hot soup to a blender. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply blend half and mix it back into the pot for a delightful contrast in texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture. Avoid boiling it, as this can cause the cream to separate.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir well to reincorporate any ingredients that may have settled.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your loaded potato soup with a simple side salad or a classic Caesar salad to complement the flavors and add freshness to your meal. A crusty baguette or garlic bread also makes an excellent addition, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls. Hollow out small round loaves of bread and ladle the soup inside for a delightful, edible dish. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor as you enjoy the bread with each bite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze loaded potato soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but it may alter the creaminess slightly.

→ What toppings can I add?

Feel free to add toppings like sour cream, additional cheese, chives, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick!