Introduction
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting soup packed with the flavors of baked potatoes, cheese, bacon, and green onions. It’s the ultimate cozy meal for cold nights or when you crave a rich, savory treat.
⏱️ Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: About 45 minutes
🧰 Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or potato masher (optional for smooth texture)
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2–3 green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream for garnish (optional)
📌 Ingredient Notes
- Potatoes: Russets are ideal for creamy texture and flavor.
- Bacon: Adds smokiness; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives rich flavor; mix with Monterey Jack for milder taste.
👩🍳 Instructions
- In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
- Sauté onion in the bacon fat for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Use a potato masher or blender to partially mash the potatoes for a thicker texture (optional).
- Stir in heavy cream, shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook 3–5 minutes until cheese melts and soup is heated through.
- Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
🧾 Nutrition Facts (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
💡 Tips
- For extra creaminess, blend half the soup before adding cheese.
- Garnish with extra shredded cheese for presentation.
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
- Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions for a deeper flavor.
🔄 Variations
- Loaded Vegan Soup: Use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and tempeh bacon.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Chili Potato Soup: Stir in cooked ground beef or sausage.
- Cheesy Potato Broccoli Soup: Add chopped broccoli for extra veggies.
