Loaded Baked Potato Soup

 

Loaded Baked Potato Soup: The Ultimate Bowl of Comfort

When the weather cools down, cravings heat up — and nothing hits the spot quite like a big, steamy bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup. Creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor, this is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special.

Whether you’re winding down after a long day, feeding a hungry family, or just in the mood for comfort food at its finest, this soup delivers every time. And yes — it tastes just like a loaded baked potato, but in spoonable, soul-soothing form.

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🥔 What Makes It “Loaded”?

This isn’t just any potato soup. We’re talking about a rich and creamy base, filled with chunks of tender baked potato, sharp cheddar cheese, crisp bacon, and a sprinkle of green onions. Top it off with sour cream? Now you’re speaking the language of comfort.

It’s like your favorite steakhouse side dish — turned into a hearty, satisfying meal.

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🧾 Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 4 large russet potatoes, baked and roughly chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)

• 3 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp flour

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the “Loaded” Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives

• Extra cheese & bacon for topping (optional but highly encouraged)

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👩‍🍳 How to Make It:

1. Bake the Potatoes:
   Bake your potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for about an hour, or until soft. Let them cool slightly, then peel and roughly chop.

2. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; cook until softened.

3. Make a Roux:
   Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes.

4. Add Liquids:
   Slowly whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.

5. Add Potatoes:
   Stir in the chopped baked potatoes. Use a potato masher to mash some of them for a thick, hearty texture (leave some chunks for bite!).

6. Stir in the Good Stuff:
   Add cheese, bacon, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is melted and smooth.

7. Taste & Adjust:
   Adjust seasonings if needed. Add more milk or broth if it’s too thick for your liking.

8. Serve Hot:
   Ladle into bowls and top with more cheese, bacon, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.

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🧠 Tips & Tricks:

• Short on time? Use pre-baked potatoes or microwave them to speed things up.

• Vegetarian version? Skip the bacon and use veggie broth. Add smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.

• Want it thicker? Mash more potatoes or stir in a little cornstarch slurry.

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🥄 Final Thoughts

This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is everything comfort food should be: warm, creamy, filling, and packed with flavor. It's perfect for weeknights, lazy Sundays, or cozy dinners with friends.

Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it all season long.

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Have you tried this recipe yet? Drop a comment below or tag me if you make it — I love seeing your kitchen creations!