Loaded Potato Soup

Name: Loaded Potato Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this creamy Loaded Potato Soup, a comforting dish featuring tender potatoes, crispy bacon, savory cheese, and fresh green onions. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty soup is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it up with a slice of bread for the ultimate cozy meal.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-10T12:18:09.871Z

This creamy Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening. It is a delicious mix of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, savory cheese, and fresh green onions.

A Classic Comfort Food

There’s something inherently satisfying about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with wholesome ingredients like potatoes and crispy bacon. Loaded Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul. Each spoonful brings together rich flavors and textures, making it a nostalgic dish for many. Whether you're revisiting childhood memories or discovering this recipe for the first time, you’ll understand why this soup has become a classic in many households.

The combination of creamy potatoes, salty bacon, and melty cheese creates a delightful harmony in every bite. As the temperatures drop, reaching for a comforting soup like this one feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, the ingredients are simple and accessible, ensuring that you can whip up this dish even on the busiest of days.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Loaded Potato Soup is versatile enough to be served for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or a casual potluck with friends, this soup is sure to impress. Its heartiness makes it suitable for a main course, while it can also be a fantastic appetizer that whets the appetite for a main meal.

Moreover, this recipe is fantastic for meal prepping and leftovers. The flavors only deepen the next day, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. Simply reheat and enjoy! You can easily double the batch, ensuring you have plenty to share or save for later.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of Loaded Potato Soup is its adaptability. While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding in elements like sautéed mushrooms, garlic, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or gouda for an exciting twist.

For those who want to lighten it up a bit, you can substitute full-fat heavy cream with lighter alternatives or cream cheese for a different texture. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. These adjustments allow everyone to enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness, no matter their dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the grease in the pot.

Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

Mash and Mix

Using a potato masher, mash some of the potatoes for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks. Stir in the heavy cream, cheese, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Garnish with additional cheese and green onions before serving hot. Enjoy!

This soup pairs beautifully with fresh bread or a light salad.

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup

For the best flavor and texture, ensure that your potatoes are diced evenly. This allows them to cook uniformly, resulting in a harmonious soup texture. Russet potatoes are a great choice for this recipe due to their starchiness, which helps create that desired creamy consistency when mashed.

Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing the potatoes to cook until tender is crucial. This step ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, which is especially important for comfort food like this Loaded Potato Soup. Lastly, taste your broth before adding salt and pepper, as the bacon and cheese can contribute a fair amount of sodium.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving Loaded Potato Soup with crusty artisan bread or garlic bread. A fresh salad on the side can add a nice crunch and balance to the meal. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes as a topping can allow guests to tailor their soup just to their liking.

You can also create a toppings bar for a fun twist! Provide a selection of toppings like additional cheese, sour cream, crispy onions, and chives so everyone can customize their bowl. This interactive dining experience enhances the fun and enjoyment of the meal.

Storage and Reheating

When it comes to leftovers, Loaded Potato Soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, you can do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If you find the soup has thickened, simply add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in portion-sized containers. When you want to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove, just as before, to serve up a comforting meal that tastes just as good as fresh!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

→ Can I freeze Loaded Potato Soup?

It's best to freeze without the dairy. Add cream and cheese after thawing.