Steam on the windows, bacon sizzling in the pan, and that smelloh, that smelllike your favorite sweater just came to life. This Loaded Baked Potato Soup turns cold nights into warm hugs. It’s everywhere right now, from TikTok cravings to cozy Reddit threads.
This bowl’s got it allcrispy bacon, tender real potatoes, a touch of milk or cream, and cheddar that melts just right. It’s pantry-ready, no fancy stuff, and feels like your grandma’s soupbut less waiting around. Full details in the blog!
Grew up making pots of this with my abuelaone to eat, one to freeze, and usually one half-burnt batch we pretended tasted perfect. Years later, I tested this version to be fast, rich, and cozy without the fuss. You’ll love the secret I use to thicken it!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This soup just screams cozy. It’s hearty, creamy, and packed with everything you love about a loaded baked potatobut in a comforting bowl of goodness. Think bacon, cheese, sour cream, and tender chunks of potato, all swimming together in a luscious, cheesy broth.
You’ll also love how approachable it is. From weeknight dinners to lazy Sunday meals, this dish comes together with simple ingredients you likely already have in the pantry. Plus, it’s easily customizable, so you can make it your own (or sneak in a few veggies if you like).
And, let’s be honestanything topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives is already winning.
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the magic ingredients that make this soup unforgettable. No fancy or hard-to-find items herejust pantry and fridge staples:
Potatoes: Real, humble potatoes are the heart of this soup. Microwave them to save time!
Season and combine: Add salt, garlic salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese, bacon (leave some for topping), sour cream, and the cooked potato chunks. Let it simmer gently until the soup thickens just right.
Serve and enjoy: Dish up the soup in bowls, topping each with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh chives. That final touch takes it over the top!
Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or stock if it thickened too much in the fridge.
Freezing: Skip freezing if possible! Dairy-based soups can separate when thawed. If you do freeze it, leave out the sour cream and add it fresh after reheating.
Pro Tip: This recipe scales beautifully! Halve it if you’re making potato soup for one, or double it for a crowd.
Expert Insight: The Appeal of Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Loaded baked potato soup excels by balancing creamy texture with hearty ingredients like bacon and cheese, elevating a simple comfort food into a satisfying meal. Incorporating potatoes with their natural starch helps create a rich, velvety base that clings perfectly to toppings, making each spoonful both filling and flavorful.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Long Road to the Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Finding the right balance for this loaded baked potato soup was a real kitchen adventure. I lost count of how many times I adjusted the cream and seasoning before nailing that cozy, hearty flavor. This version is the result of plenty of trial, error, and hungry feedback from my family’s nonstop taste tests.
FAQs ( Loaded Baked Potato Soup )
How do I make this soup thicker without adding flour?
For a naturally thicker texture, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot before pureeing or blending the soup. Using a good potato soup for one method, like gradually simmering to reduce liquid, also helps. Avoid adding flour by incorporating a little heavy cream or a splash of milk to enhance richness and body.
Can I use bacon bits instead of fresh bacon in this recipe?
You can substitute bacon bits for convenience, but fresh bacon provides a superior smoky flavor and crisp texture that enhances this dish. If using pre-cooked bits, add them near the end so they stay crisp. Fresh bacon also adds rendered fat that enriches the soup’s base, making it more flavorful.
What type of potatoes work best for this creamy potato soup?
Russet potatoes are ideal for this easy cream of potato soup because they break down nicely, creating a naturally creamy texture. You can also mix in Yukon Golds for a slightly buttery taste and firm bite. Using real potatoes instead of instant flakes makes a noticeable difference in both texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip flour-based thickeners. Use cornstarch or arrowroot powder if you want to thicken the soup without gluten, mixing it with cold water before adding. Always double-check seasoning blends to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients are included.
Can I freeze leftover soup, and how do I reheat it?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Let the soup cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove, stirring often. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating helps restore the soup’s creamy texture.
Conclusion
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is pure comfort in a bowl, and you’ll love how it turns outrich, creamy, with those tender potato chunks and crispy bacon bits that make every spoonful sing. In under an hour, you’ve got a cozy meal that fills the kitchen with that irresistible aroma, warming you from the inside out. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a familiar hug after a long day.
I’d love to see your take on this best easy potato soup! Snap a photo, share your tweaks, or tell me if this recipe brought back memories of your own family gatherings. Don’t forget to save and share it with anyone who deserves a warm, hearty bowl of homemade love. Cozy nights are waiting!
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food with rich and hearty flavors. This Best Easy Potato Soup combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy, cheesy broth for a delicious meal. Perfect for chilly days and satisfying cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
4 potatoes scrubbed
8 bacon slices
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves minced
ÂĽ cup yellow onion diced
â…“ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-fat milk
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups chicken stock
1 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
½ tsp garlic salt plus more to taste
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup mild cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup sour cream
Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
Pierce potatoes several times and microwave until tender then cool peel and cut into chunks.
Cook bacon until crisp then drain cool and crumble reserving 1 tbsp fat.
Melt butter with reserved bacon fat add garlic and onion cook until tender.
Whisk in flour cook 1-2 minutes then gradually add milk half-and-half and chicken stock bring to simmer.
Add kosher salt garlic salt and black pepper simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in cheeses bacon and sour cream remove from heat.
Add potato chunks stir to combine.
Serve hot garnished with reserved cheese bacon and chives.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
