Loaded Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

BY :

Sofia Morrison

Posted On :

September 17, 2025

Dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this incredible Loaded Potato Soup recipe! Imagine creamy, dreamy potato soup bursting with flavor, loaded with all your favorite toppings. This isn’t just any potato soup; it’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Forget those bland, watery potato soups of the past – this recipe elevates the classic to new heights with its rich texture and irresistible toppings. From the perfectly seasoned broth to the melt-in-your-mouth cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, every spoonful is an explosion of taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results. Get ready to experience the ultimate Loaded Potato Soup experience!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

This Loaded Potato Soup recipe isn’t just another soup; it’s an experience. There are several reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe, and fall in love with it over and over again:

Unbelievably Creamy Texture: The secret lies in the perfect blend of creamy heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option) and smooth, perfectly cooked potatoes. The result is a luxuriously creamy soup that coats your spoon and warms you from the inside out. It’s the kind of creaminess that makes you want to lick the bowl clean!
Flavor Explosion: We’re not talking about a simple potato soup here. This recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to a savory blend of herbs and spices. The thyme adds a subtle earthiness, while the garlic and onion provide a rich depth of flavor. Each bite is a symphony of taste that will leave you wanting more.
Easy to Customize: Love bacon? Add extra! Prefer a vegetarian version? Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. Want to experiment with different cheeses? Go for it! This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a casual get-together, or a special occasion, this Loaded Potato Soup is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of comforting food that brings people together and creates lasting memories. It’s equally satisfying as a starter or a main course.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup is fantastic for meal prepping! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy meal later in the week. Just reheat and enjoy! This is particularly great for busy weeknights, or to have a comforting meal ready for when guests arrive.

Why You Should Try This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

In a world of countless recipes, this Loaded Potato Soup stands out for its exceptional qualities. Here are compelling reasons to try it:

Simplicity and Speed: This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The simple steps and clear instructions make it achievable for anyone, regardless of their culinary experience. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can have a warm, delicious bowl of soup ready.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and generally inexpensive, making this a cost-effective meal option, perfect for feeding a family or a group of friends without breaking the bank. Potatoes are a great affordable staple ingredient.
Healthier Choices Available: While the original recipe uses heavy cream, you can easily substitute it with milk or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter, healthier option. You can also control the amount of bacon and cheese for a healthier, lower-fat meal.
Nutrient-Rich: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while the chicken broth provides protein. The addition of cheese provides calcium. This soup is a surprisingly nutritious meal, despite its indulgent nature.
Versatile and Adaptable: This is not a rigid recipe. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste, add different vegetables, or experiment with various toppings. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create your own unique version of Loaded Potato Soup each time you make it. Explore adding different cheeses, herbs, or even roasted vegetables for unique flavor combinations!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Loaded Potato Soup

Gathering the right ingredients and having the proper tools are key to making this Loaded Potato Soup recipe a success. Let’s delve into the specifics:

Detailed List of Ingredients:

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It helps to sauté the onions and garlic.
Onion (1 large, chopped): Yellow onion is traditional, but you can use white or red onion as well. Chopping it finely helps it to cook evenly and melt into the soup’s flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic provides a much more intense and pleasant flavor than garlic powder. Mince it finely to release its aromatic compounds.
Chicken Broth (6 cups): This provides the base flavor of the soup. For a vegetarian Loaded Potato Soup, substitute with vegetable broth. Low-sodium broth is recommended, allowing you to control the salt level.
Russet Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and cubed): Russet potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture when cooked. Make sure to peel and cube them into relatively even sizes for even cooking.
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Thyme adds a wonderful earthy aroma and flavor to the soup. Fresh thyme can also be used, but you will need a larger quantity.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients. Adjust to taste, depending on the saltiness of your broth.
Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spiciness. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) or Milk (1 cup): Heavy cream provides a rich and creamy texture. For a lighter soup, use milk (whole milk is recommended). Plant-based cream alternatives can also be used.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness and saltiness. Other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack can be used for a milder flavor.
Cooked Bacon (1/2 cup, crumbled, optional): Crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor and satisfying crunch. Omit for a vegetarian option.
Green Onions (1/4 cup, chopped, optional): Chopped green onions provide a fresh, slightly oniony flavor and vibrant green color. Other fresh herbs, such as chives, could also be used.
Sour Cream (optional): A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, tangy contrast to the hot soup.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for making a big batch of Loaded Potato Soup. It should be large enough to comfortably accommodate all the ingredients.
Blender or Immersion Blender: A blender or immersion blender is needed to achieve a smooth soup. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step and simply mash some of the potatoes.
Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and cubing the potatoes. A sharp knife makes this process easier and safer.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for consistent results.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup while it simmers and cooks.
Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
Serving Bowls: Choose your favorite bowls to serve this delicious soup in.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Loaded Potato Soup

Follow these steps to make the most delicious Loaded Potato Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. **Tip:** Don’t overcrowd the pot; if needed, sauté the onions in batches to ensure they soften properly and don’t steam.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. **Tip:** Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will impart a bitter taste. Reduce heat slightly if needed.
Simmer the Potatoes: Add the chicken broth, cubed potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. **Tip:** Don’t overcook the potatoes, as they will become mushy and difficult to blend smoothly. Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork.
Blend (or Mash): Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (working in batches if necessary) and blend until completely smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier cleanup. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot with a potato masher or fork, leaving some potatoes whole for texture.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender). Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. **Tip:** Reduce the heat to low to prevent scorching the cheese and cream. Stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Add Bacon (Optional): If using bacon, stir it into the soup now. **Tip:** Use pre-cooked bacon for ease and to prevent overcooking. You can also add it as a garnish.
Serve Hot: Serve the Loaded Potato Soup hot, garnished with green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and extra bacon or cheese, if desired. **Tip:** For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.

Tips and Variations for Loaded Potato Soup

Elevate your Loaded Potato Soup experience with these helpful tips and exciting variations:

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Add More Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions when sautéing.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would work wonderfully.
Creamy Alternatives: For a lighter soup, use milk instead of heavy cream. For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk (like oat or soy milk) and a vegan cream alternative.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a depth of flavor by roasting your vegetables (onions, carrots, celery, etc.) before adding them to the soup. This adds a smoky sweetness that complements the potatoes beautifully.
Herbs and Spices: Get creative with herbs and spices! Experiment with different combinations, like rosemary, parsley, or paprika, to create your own signature Loaded Potato Soup flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure that your broth is gluten-free if you’re following a gluten-free diet. Most store-bought broths contain gluten.
Avoid Over-Blending: If blending, avoid over-blending the soup as it can create a gluey texture. Blend until smooth but still slightly thick.
Seasoning is Key: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process. Salt and pepper are crucial but don’t be afraid to experiment with other seasonings to find your perfect blend.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Loaded Potato Soup

While Loaded Potato Soup is undeniably indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits. The exact nutritional content varies depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a general estimate for a single serving (approximately 1.5 cups) of the recipe above might be around:

Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories
Protein: Around 15-20 grams
Fat: Around 25-35 grams (depending on the amount of bacon and heavy cream)
Carbohydrates: Around 40-50 grams

Nutritional Benefits:

Potatoes: A good source of Vitamin C and potassium, which are essential for maintaining healthy immune function and blood pressure.
Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth): Provides protein (chicken broth) and essential electrolytes. Vegetable broth is a low-calorie, hydrating option.
Cheddar Cheese: A source of calcium, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth.
Bacon (optional): Provides some protein and iron. Use sparingly to minimize saturated fat intake.
Thyme: Packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Remember that these are estimates, and the nutritional values will vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes used. Always consult a nutritionist or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

FAQs about Loaded Potato Soup

Can I make this Loaded Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Loaded Potato Soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving. Adding the toppings is best done just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

What kind of potatoes are best for Loaded Potato Soup?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they become creamy and smooth when cooked. However, you could experiment with other starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold for a slightly different taste and texture.

Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Loaded Potato Soup. Cool it completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

What are some good alternatives to bacon?

For a vegetarian version, you could omit the bacon entirely or substitute with crispy pancetta, crumbled tempeh bacon, or even toasted nuts for a crunchy topping.

Is this recipe easily adaptable for different dietary needs?

Yes, this recipe is very adaptable! You can easily make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can make it vegan by using plant-based milk and cream alternatives. You can also control the amount of cheese and bacon to suit your dietary requirements.

Conclusion: Your Loaded Potato Soup Adventure Awaits!

This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. From its rich, creamy texture to the explosion of flavors and customizable options, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Remember the key steps: sautéing the aromatics, simmering the potatoes to perfection, blending for a smooth consistency (or leaving it chunky!), and finally, loading it with your favorite toppings. This recipe is simple to execute, yet delivers results that impress. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes on our website here for more culinary inspiration! Now, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create your very own perfect bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. Let us know in the comments how yours turns out, and don’t forget to share your photos with us on Pinterest! Check out our Pinterest page for more inspiration! Happy cooking!