Loaded Potato Soup: A Creamy, Comforting Classic

Name: Loaded Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 large Onion (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 6 cups Vegetable broth ((or chicken broth)); 2 pounds Russet potatoes (peeled and cubed); 1 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper; 0.5 cup Heavy cream or milk ((for a lighter version)); 0.5 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 0.25 cup Crumbled bacon (optional); 0.25 cup Chopped green onions (optional); Sour cream (optional, for topping); Cheddar cheese (optional, for topping); Bacon bits (optional, for topping)

BY :

Natalie

Posted On :

September 5, 2025

DINNER

Dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this incredibly satisfying Loaded Potato Soup recipe. This isn’t your grandma’s potato soup; it’s a hearty, flavorful explosion of creamy potatoes, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon bits – the ultimate comfort food elevated to new heights. Imagine a velvety smooth potato base, enriched with a touch of heavy cream, then generously topped with your favorite fixings: sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, fresh green onions, and a swirl of tangy sour cream. It’s the perfect meal for a chilly evening, a cozy weekend brunch, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is incredibly versatile, adaptable to your dietary preferences, and guaranteed to become a family favorite in no time.

We’ve taken the classic potato soup and transformed it into something truly special, a culinary masterpiece that balances richness and simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers consistently delicious results. Get ready to experience a taste of pure indulgence with every spoonful. From the initial sautéed onions and garlic to the perfectly blended potatoes and creamy finish, every step is carefully crafted to create a truly unforgettable Loaded Potato Soup experience. We’ll even show you how to customize it to create vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free versions, ensuring there’s a Loaded Potato Soup for everyone to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:

Unbelievably Creamy Texture: The secret lies in perfectly cooked and then blended potatoes, creating an unbelievably smooth and creamy base. The addition of heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version) further enhances this luxurious texture.
Bold and Savory Flavor: This isn’t a bland potato soup. The sautéed onions and garlic provide a delicious foundation, while the seasonings and toppings add layers of complexity and depth. Each bite is a symphony of flavors!
Incredibly Customizable: Want to make it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. The possibilities are endless!
Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. The straightforward instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings, this Loaded Potato Soup is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s equally delicious served hot for a cold night or slightly chilled on a warmer day. It is a great dish to meal prep as well.
Leftovers are Amazing!: The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight making the leftovers even more delicious! This soup is even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.

This Loaded Potato Soup recipe truly offers an unmatched combination of taste, texture, and ease, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You Should Try This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe

Beyond its undeniable deliciousness, this Loaded Potato Soup offers a range of benefits that make it a worthwhile addition to your culinary repertoire:

Comfort Food Perfection: On a cold night, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comforting potato soup. This recipe takes it to the next level with its loaded toppings, offering the ultimate indulgence.
Nutrient-Rich: Potatoes are a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Vegetable broth adds electrolytes and essential minerals. This soup provides a balanced nutritional profile within a delicious and satisfying meal.
Versatile and Adaptable: This recipe can be easily tailored to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Create a vegan version, a lighter version, or a spicier version – the possibilities are endless.
Cost-Effective: The ingredients are readily available and affordable, making this a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality.
Impressive Presentation: This Loaded Potato Soup is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The vibrant colors of the toppings make it an ideal dish for impressing guests or simply treating yourself.
A Recipe to Cherish: This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. Its ease of preparation, exceptional taste, and versatility will make it a staple in your kitchen for years to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive in and experience the ultimate comfort food with this incredible Loaded Potato Soup recipe. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Loaded Potato Soup

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for creating the perfect Loaded Potato Soup. Let’s dive into the specifics:

Detailed List of Ingredients:

Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the aromatics.
Onion: 1 large, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup base. Yellow or white onions are ideal.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – A key ingredient for enhancing the savory flavor profile. Fresh garlic is preferred for its potent aroma.
Vegetable Broth: 6 cups – Forms the liquid base of the soup. Chicken broth can be substituted for a richer flavor. Look for low-sodium varieties to control the salt content.
Russet Potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and cubed – The star ingredient! Russet potatoes offer a creamy texture when cooked and blended. Ensure they are peeled and cubed evenly for uniform cooking.
Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to taste based on the saltiness of your broth.
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon – Adds a touch of spice and complexity to the soup. Freshly ground pepper is always recommended.
Heavy Cream or Milk: 1/2 cup – Creates a rich and creamy texture. Milk can be used for a lighter version of the soup.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup – A classic topping that adds a sharp, tangy flavor. Choose a good quality cheddar for the best results.
Crumbled Bacon: 1/4 cup (optional) – Adds a smoky, salty flavor and satisfying crunch. Use your favorite brand of bacon, cooked until crispy.
Chopped Green Onions: 1/4 cup (optional) – Provides a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor.
Sour Cream: (optional, for topping) – Adds a dollop of tangy creaminess to each bowl. Use full-fat sour cream for the richest flavor.
Additional Cheddar Cheese: (optional, for topping) – Provides extra cheesy goodness to each bowl. Grated or shredded cheese works well.
Bacon Bits: (optional, for topping) – Another option to add that satisfying crunch and smoky flavor. Pre-cooked bacon bits are readily available in most grocery stores.

Recommended Tools and Utensils:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For comfortable cooking and blending of the soup. A 6-quart pot or larger is recommended to prevent spills during the boiling process.
Immersion Blender or Regular Blender: For blending the cooked potatoes until smooth. An immersion blender is convenient, but a regular blender works equally well (be careful blending hot liquids).
Cutting Board: For safely chopping the onions and preparing the potatoes.
Sharp Knife: For efficient and safe chopping of the vegetables.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of the ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup while cooking. A heat-resistant spatula is useful for scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent sticking.
Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
Serving Bowls: Choose bowls that are large enough to hold a generous portion of soup and the toppings.

Having these ingredients and utensils readily available will significantly enhance your Loaded Potato Soup-making experience, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable process.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Loaded Potato Soup

Let’s embark on the journey of crafting a delicious bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. Follow these steps carefully for optimal results:

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 rush this step; properly softened onions contribute significantly to the soup’s overall flavor.
Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. **Caution:** Don’t burn the garlic, as it will impart a bitter taste. A gentle sizzle is ideal.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the vegetable broth, cubed potatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. **Tip:** Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness of the soup, adjusting according to your preference.
Simmer the Potatoes: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. **Tip:** Ensure the potatoes are thoroughly cooked before blending; this is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. **Important Safety Note:** When blending hot liquids, vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure buildup. Use caution to avoid burns. If using a regular blender, fill it only about halfway to allow for expansion during blending. Work in batches if needed.
Add the Cream and Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or milk) and heat through, but do not boil. **Tip:** Stir gently to prevent curdling the cream. If using milk, you may want to use a little less.
Melt the Cheddar: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated into the soup. **Tip:** If the cheese doesn’t melt easily, you can briefly remove the soup from the heat. A well-melted cheese is essential for adding richness and creaminess.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings: crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and extra cheddar cheese. **Presentation Tip:** A generous sprinkle of bacon bits and a swirl of sour cream adds visual appeal to the dish. Enjoy!

Following these detailed instructions will guide you through every step, ensuring that you create a perfectly creamy and flavorful bowl of Loaded Potato Soup. Each step is crucial for achieving that delicious result!

Tips and Variations for Loaded Potato Soup

This recipe provides a fantastic foundation; however, there are endless ways to personalize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredient Alternatives:

Broth: Use chicken broth for a richer flavor, or try vegetable broth with added herbs and spices for extra depth. Bone broth also adds a unique umami element.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes can be used instead of russets, offering a slightly different flavor and texture. Sweet potatoes can add sweetness and vibrant color if you like a sweeter soup.
Dairy: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter soup. For vegan options, use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for creaminess.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese shreds are also readily available.
Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Add crispy fried onions, chives, roasted red peppers, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and texture.

Dietary Variations:

Vegan Loaded Potato Soup: Omit the bacon, use vegetable broth, and substitute vegan cream and cheese alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
Gluten-Free Loaded Potato Soup: Ensure that your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Spicy Loaded Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or some finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Creamy Loaded Potato Soup: Using full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream enhances the creaminess of the vegan version. Full-fat dairy also increases the creaminess of the original recipe.

Avoiding Common Mistakes:

Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and difficult to blend smoothly. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
Be careful when blending hot liquids: Always vent the lid of the blender slightly to prevent pressure buildup. Avoid burns by using caution.
Don’t boil the soup after adding the cream: Boiling the soup after adding cream can cause it to curdle, resulting in a grainy texture.
Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences. Start with less and add more as needed.

By following these tips and variations, you can customize your Loaded Potato Soup to fit your unique preferences and dietary needs. Remember to have fun experimenting with different flavors and toppings!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Loaded Potato Soup

While this Loaded Potato Soup is undeniably indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. The exact nutritional values depend on the specific ingredients used and their quantities. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming a 1.5-cup serving) would be:

Calories: Approximately 350-450 calories (depending on the type of cream and cheese used).
Protein: Around 10-15 grams (mostly from the milk/cream and cheese).
Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams (from olive oil, cream/milk, cheese, and bacon).
Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams (primarily from the potatoes).

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Potatoes: Excellent source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure. They also provide vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant.
Vegetable Broth: A low-calorie, flavorful base providing essential electrolytes and minerals.
Cheddar Cheese: A good source of calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth. It also contains protein.
Bacon (optional): Adds a savory flavor and some iron and B vitamins, but is higher in fat and sodium.
Green Onions (optional): Provide Vitamin K and antioxidants.

It’s important to remember that this is an approximate nutritional breakdown. To get a precise nutritional analysis, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and their quantities used in your recipe.

Remember that moderation is key. Enjoy this delicious soup as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs about Loaded Potato Soup

Can I make this Loaded Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then, combine all ingredients (except cream and cheese) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How can I make this Loaded Potato Soup thicker?

If your soup is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with cold water until it thickens to your liking.

Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?

Yes, Loaded Potato Soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Add the toppings when reheating.

What are some other vegetables I can add to this Loaded Potato Soup?

Consider adding diced carrots, celery, or even some chopped broccoli florets along with the potatoes. They will add more nutritional value and depth of flavor.

How long can I store leftover Loaded Potato Soup in the refrigerator?

Leftover Loaded Potato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly chilled before storing.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Bowl of Loaded Potato Soup!

This Loaded Potato Soup recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s a journey to culinary comfort. We’ve explored the rich flavors, the creamy texture, and the incredible versatility of this classic dish. We’ve highlighted the nutritional benefits, provided tips for avoiding common mistakes, and offered a variety of delicious variations. Whether you crave a hearty, cheesy, bacon-laden bowl or a lighter, vegan alternative, this recipe has you covered. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible results.

We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below! Let us know what toppings you used, or any adjustments you made. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – it’s a keeper! And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out our other articles on seemorerecipes.com, including our amazing Pumpkin Cookies with Creamy Frosting for a sweet treat, or our Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for another comforting classic.