Few dishes capture the essence of American comfort food quite like Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Rich, creamy, and packed with savory toppings, this soup transforms the beloved baked potato into a warm, spoon-able meal that feels indulgent, cozy, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that brings immediate comfort—perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave something hearty and familiar.
Baked potatoes have long been a staple in American cuisine, loved for their simplicity and versatility. When turned into soup, all the best elements remain: fluffy potatoes, creamy texture, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions. The result is a bowl of soup that tastes like a fully loaded baked potato—but even better.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup has become increasingly popular across the United States thanks to its comforting flavor, budget-friendly ingredients, and ability to feed a crowd. It’s a favorite on restaurant menus, slow-cooker meal plans, Pinterest boards, and winter dinner rotations.
Whether you’re making a cozy weeknight dinner, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this soup delivers warmth, richness, and classic American flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Soup
This recipe checks every box for a perfect comfort meal:
-
Ultra creamy and filling
-
Tastes just like a loaded baked potato
-
Made with simple, affordable ingredients
-
Perfect for cold weather and cozy nights
-
Easy to customize with toppings
-
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
-
Great for leftovers and meal prep
-
Comfort food that feels indulgent yet homemade
It’s one of those recipes that becomes a regular request once you make it once.
Ingredients (What You’ll Need)
Soup Base
-
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
-
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
3 tablespoons butter
-
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
-
2 cups whole milk
-
1 cup heavy cream
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Classic Loaded Toppings
-
Cooked bacon, crumbled
-
Shredded cheddar cheese
-
Sour cream
-
Green onions, sliced
Optional Add-Ins
-
Cream cheese (for extra richness)
-
Paprika or smoked paprika
-
Garlic powder
-
Chives
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot, add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes. This creates a roux that will thicken the soup.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Base
Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the creamy mixture into the pot with potatoes and broth. Stir well and simmer gently for 5–10 minutes.
Step 6: Blend (Optional)
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Leave some potato chunks for texture.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot and top generously with bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
Flavor Profile
Loaded Baked Potato Soup delivers a rich, balanced flavor:
-
Creamy and buttery base
-
Savory depth from bacon and broth
-
Mild sweetness from potatoes
-
Sharp, salty contrast from cheddar
-
Fresh brightness from green onions
Each spoonful is comforting, rich, and deeply satisfying.
Variations to Try
Extra Creamy Loaded Potato Soup
Add cream cheese or extra heavy cream for an ultra-luxurious texture.
Cheesy Potato Soup
Stir cheddar directly into the soup base for melted cheesy goodness.
Slow Cooker Loaded Potato Soup
Cook potatoes and broth on low for 6–7 hours, then add dairy at the end.
Vegetarian Potato Soup
Use vegetable broth and skip bacon—add smoked paprika for flavor.
Spicy Loaded Potato Soup
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.
Cooking Notes & Pro Tips
-
Russet potatoes work best for creamy texture
-
Don’t boil after adding dairy
-
Blend partially for best consistency
-
Taste and adjust seasoning at the end
-
Add toppings just before serving
Serving Suggestions
Loaded Baked Potato Soup pairs perfectly with:
-
Crusty bread or dinner rolls
-
Garlic bread
-
Simple green salad
-
Grilled cheese sandwich
It’s hearty enough to be a full meal on its own.
Party & Holiday Serving Ideas
-
Serve in bread bowls for a fun presentation
-
Set up a toppings bar for guests
-
Perfect for game day, family gatherings, and winter parties
-
Great addition to holiday soup nights
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
Prepare the soup base without toppings and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Freezing
Freeze without dairy toppings for up to 2 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Over-blending (makes gluey texture)
-
Using waxy potatoes
-
Adding dairy over high heat
-
Skipping seasoning adjustments
-
Forgetting the toppings
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
-
Calories: 450
-
Protein: 14g
-
Fat: 28g
-
Carbohydrates: 36g
-
Sodium: 820mg
FAQs
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—use cornstarch instead of flour.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Mild, creamy, and familiar flavors.
Can I use leftover baked potatoes?
Yes—chop and add them directly.
Can I make it lighter?
Use milk instead of cream and reduce cheese.
Internal Linking Opportunities
-
Cozy soup lovers should try Creamy Tortellini Soup
-
Pair with Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas for a fun dinner
-
Comfort food fans will love One-Pot Chicken & Dumplings
-
For creamy dinners, check Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
External Authority Links
-
Potato nutrition and storage (USDA):
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety -
Soup thickening techniques:
https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-thicken-soup-230040 -
Why comfort soups trend in winter:
https://www.bonappetit.com/story/comfort-food-soups
Why Loaded Baked Potato Soup Is So Popular in the USA
Loaded Baked Potato Soup reflects everything Americans love about comfort food: creamy textures, familiar flavors, customizable toppings, and hearty portions. Its popularity spikes during fall and winter, especially as families look for warm, filling meals that feel indulgent yet simple. It’s a timeless recipe that continues to dominate search trends and restaurant menus across the United States.
Conclusion
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, hearty, and loaded with everything you love about a classic baked potato. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and deeply satisfying, it’s a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s rotation.
Whether you’re serving family, hosting friends, or just craving a cozy bowl of comfort, this soup delivers every time.
