Introduction

Nothing is more comforting than a warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup on a chilly day. This soup takes the classic baked potato—creamy, buttery potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions—and transforms it into a rich, velvety dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

The soup’s base of tender potatoes, simmered in a savory broth and enriched with milk and cream, provides a luscious texture, while melted cheddar cheese adds sharpness and depth. Crispy bacon brings smoky flavor, and garnishes like green onions and sour cream make every bite flavorful and visually appealing.

Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this soup delivers comfort and indulgence in every spoonful. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking yet impressive enough for special occasions.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it brings together all the flavors I adore in a single bowl. The creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and smoky bacon create an irresistible combination that is both comforting and indulgent.

It’s versatile—partially blended for a smooth texture or left chunky for more bite. Toppings can be customized: extra cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, or fresh green onions. The aroma while cooking—bacon sizzling, onions softening, garlic releasing fragrance—is enough to make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant.

Every time I make this soup, it fills the home with warmth, and seeing family or guests enjoying it makes it even more special.

Why This Soup Is a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because it elevates a humble potato into a luxurious, flavorful meal. The combination of textures—creamy potatoes, gooey cheddar, crunchy bacon, and fresh green onions—makes it universally appealing.

It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or as a starter for parties. Unlike ordinary potato soups, this recipe balances indulgence with simplicity. Every bite is satisfying, comforting, and memorable—making it an instant favorite for anyone who loves hearty comfort food.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Soup
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

• ½ cup green onions, chopped
• ½ cup sour cream
• Extra shredded cheddar
• Crumbled bacon

Cooking Directions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving some fat in the pot.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add butter to the pot. Sauté onions until translucent (3–4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the potatoes: Add diced potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
4. Blend (optional): Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks.
5. Add dairy and cheese: Stir in heavy cream, milk, and shredded cheddar. Cook on low heat until the cheese melts, stirring constantly.
6. Season and finish: Add half of the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Peel and dice potatoes; chop bacon; dice onion; mince garlic.
2. Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy; remove and leave some fat.
3. Add butter to bacon fat, sauté onions until soft, then garlic for 30 seconds.
4. Add potatoes and broth; bring to a boil and simmer until tender.
5. Partially blend soup with an immersion blender if desired.
6. Stir in cream, milk, and cheddar until melted and creamy.
7. Add half the bacon and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot with garnishes: extra cheese, bacon, green onions, and sour cream.

How to Serve

Serve hot in bowls with garnishes such as shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a hearty meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use russet potatoes for a creamy, smooth texture.
• Don’t overblend; leaving some chunks adds texture.
• Adjust cheese and cream to your taste.
• Cook onions and garlic in bacon fat for extra flavor.
• Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika.
• Veggie-Loaded: Include corn, peas, or roasted broccoli.
• Cheese Variations: Use Gruyère, smoked cheddar, or Monterey Jack for new flavors.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding milk if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, it can be made a day in advance and reheated on the stovetop. Add milk if it thickens.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked or frozen potatoes?
A: Fresh russet potatoes work best, but leftover baked or frozen potatoes can also be used with slight adjustments.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as the broth is gluten-free.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Substitute milk and cream with plant-based alternatives, skip bacon, and use vegan cheese.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon is the ultimate comfort food: creamy, cheesy, flavorful, and hearty. It’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions. With customizable toppings, easy preparation, and endless variations, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Warm, indulgent, and satisfying, it’s a recipe every comfort-food lover must try.