There’s nothing quite like the aroma of creamy soup wafting through the kitchen on a chilly evening, is there? That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup—a warm embrace in a bowl! This dish brings together the comforting flavors of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tangy sour cream, all swirled into a rich, thick broth that’ll make you forget about takeout. Not only is this soup a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Imagine coziness with every spoonful, whether you’re (finally!) getting to unwind after a long day or hosting friends for dinner. Are you ready to dive into this ultimate comfort food? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this soup the ultimate comfort?
Hearty, Creamy Goodness: This Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup delivers a delightful dish that will warm your soul and fill your tummy.
Flavor Explosion: With the perfect blend of crispy bacon, sharp cheese, and tangy sour cream, every bowl bursts with flavor.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe will save you time on busy weeknights, making it a go-to option for homemade warmth.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this soup is sure to impress your friends and family.
Versatile Options: Tailor it to your taste by swapping ingredients, like using turkey bacon or adding fresh herbs for extra zing!
Discover more comforting ideas in our hearty recipes that will keep your kitchen cozy all season long!
Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Crispy Bacon – Adds a smoky, savory element; turkey bacon makes for a lighter option.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides rich, tangy flavor and creaminess; any aged cheese lends a bolder taste.
- Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative.
- Potatoes – The base of the soup, giving it a hearty texture; Russet potatoes are preferred for their creaminess.
- Broth – The foundation of the soup; choose chicken or vegetable broth, depending on dietary preferences.
For Garnishing
- Chives – Offers a fresh, onion-like flavor; can be replaced with green onions or omitted entirely.
Each ingredient works together to create this Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup, making it the perfect choice on cozy nights!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large pot, crisp up about six strips of bacon over medium heat, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Cook for approximately 7-10 minutes until the bacon is golden and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels, reserving the drippings in the pot for extra flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add diced russet potatoes (about 4 cups), stirring them in the bacon drippings for about 5 minutes until they begin to brown slightly. If desired, toss in 2-3 minced garlic cloves for added depth of flavor, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. The potatoes should look slightly golden.
Step 3: Add Liquid
Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Allow this to bubble for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and enjoy the aroma of the Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup filling your kitchen.
Step 4: Blend Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée the soup until creamy. You can blend until smooth or leave some chunks for texture, depending on your preference. If you don’t have an immersion blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to a stand blender in batches.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Sour Cream
Return the blended soup to medium heat, then stir in 1-2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and about 1 cup of sour cream. Cook gently, stirring continuously until the cheese and sour cream are fully melted and integrated into the soup. This enriches the Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup, creating a luscious texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls, topping each serving generously with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chives. You can add a bit more shredded cheese on top for good measure. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad to complete your comforting meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and meal planning! You can chop your potatoes and sauté them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The crispy bacon can also be cooked ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the sautéed potatoes to your broth and simmer until tender, blend the soup, then stir in the cheese and sour cream until melted. This way, you’ll enjoy a fulfilling meal without the last-minute hassle, ensuring the same delicious comfort every time!
Storage Tips for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping it fresh for your next cozy meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Thawing: To thaw frozen soup, move it to the fridge the night before or use the microwave’s defrost setting, ensuring it’s heated thoroughly before serving.
Expert Tips for Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
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Even Potato Cuts: Ensure all potatoes are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking, avoiding any that are under or overcooked.
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Adjusting Thickness: If you desire a thicker soup, gradually reduce the amount of broth; remember, you can always add more later for adjustments.
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Blending Safety: When blending hot soup, opt for an immersion blender for ease, or allow the soup to cool slightly to avoid splatters.
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Flavor Boosters: Experiment with additional seasonings like smoked paprika or freshly cracked pepper to elevate the flavor profile of your Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
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Topping Variations: Feel free to mix up toppings—consider crispy onions or jalapeños for a delightful crunch and extra zest.
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Storing Leftovers: Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently to maintain its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Imagine a gathering around the dinner table, with delectable sides enhancing the heartwarming flavors of your soup.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for dipping, crusty bread soaks up the creamy richness and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Simple Side Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty soup, providing a burst of freshness.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks enhance the cozy feel while providing an enjoyable chew to contrast the soup’s creaminess.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized offers a delightful contrast in texture and a burst of earthy flavors.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Serve fluffy, cheesy biscuits to elevate your meal, perfectly complementing the sharp cheddar flavors of the soup!
- Apple Crisp: For a sweet ending, apple crisp with warm cinnamon will brighten your palate after savoring the rich soup.
- Iced Tea: A glass of iced tea, with herbal notes, refreshes your palate, balancing the indulgent creaminess of the soup.
- Red Wine: A glass of light red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the savory profile of the ingredients with every sip.
- Crispy Fried Onions: A sprinkle of these fried onions on top adds a delightful crunch and a savory kick, making your soup an absolute treat!
Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup Variations
When it comes to making this soup your own, the possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you!
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Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version that’s just as comforting.
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Pop of Spice: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to bring some heat to the creamy goodness.
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Creamy Upgrade: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt to add extra creaminess and protein without sacrificing flavor.
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Cheesy Twist: Experiment by using a blend of cheeses, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor profile and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost that elevates each bite.
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Flavorful Boost: Consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to deepen the soup’s richness and complexity.
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Crunchy Toppings: Jazz it up with crispy fried onions, sunflower seeds, or even crumbled tortilla chips for an incredible texture contrast.
For more inspiring ideas, check out our delicious hearty recipes that will keep your kitchen cozy all season long!
Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for this soup?
I recommend using Russet potatoes for their natural creaminess and texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully too! Look for potatoes that are firm with smooth skin and minimal dark spots. Avoid any that are sprouting or have blemishes, as they may taste bitter.
How should I store leftover Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing. For longer storage, you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months; just leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.
Can I freeze Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool down, then pour it into airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add a bit of chicken or vegetable broth gradually while heating it on low, stirring until the desired consistency is reached. This is a great way to maintain the creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, definitely! For a delightful vegetarian version, simply omit the crispy bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can enhance the flavor with some smoked paprika and plenty of veggies if you like—feel free to add extra ingredients to suit your taste!
What are some common allergens to keep in mind for this recipe?
This Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup contains dairy (from cheese and sour cream) and can contain gluten if you’re using certain broths or bread for serving. For gluten-free options, make sure any broth you use is certified gluten-free, and you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern!
Indulge in Comfort with Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot, crisp up about six strips of bacon over medium heat for 7-10 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add 4 cups of diced russet potatoes, stirring for about 5 minutes until slightly browned. Optionally, add 2-3 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquid: Pour in 4 cups of broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Bubble for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender, stirring occasionally.
- Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until creamy. Adjust texture to preference by blending smooth or leaving some chunks.
- Incorporate Cheese and Sour Cream: Return blended soup to medium heat. Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheese and 1 cup sour cream until melted and integrated.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, topping with crumbled bacon and chives. Add more cheese if desired, serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
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