This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and tender potatoes. Each spoonful delivers warmth and heartiness, perfect for chilly nights or when you crave something cozy and filling. It’s like your favorite loaded baked potato, but in soup form — creamy, savory, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1 package (12 oz) bacon
- 1 ½ cups chopped onion
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 lb baking potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ⅔ cup butter
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup diced cooked ham
- 1 container (8 oz) sour cream
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- ¾ cup sliced green onions (divided)
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2️⃣ Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Add Broth and Potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and add the cubed potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4️⃣ Make the Cream Base
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened.
5️⃣ Combine Everything
Stir the milk mixture into the pot with the potatoes. Add salt, pepper, diced ham, sour cream, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, and half of the green onions. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
6️⃣ Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled bacon, remaining cheddar cheese, and green onions. Serve hot and enjoy the cozy comfort of a fully loaded bowl!
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- 🥔 Soup lovers who crave hearty, satisfying meals.
- 👩🍳 Families looking for a crowd-pleasing comfort dish.
- ❄️ Cold-weather dinners that warm you from the inside out.
- ⏱️ Busy cooks who want an easy, one-pot meal full of flavor.
Why It’s Great
- 🧀 Rich and Creamy: Velvety smooth texture from milk, butter, and sour cream.
- 🥓 Loaded with Flavor: Bacon, ham, and cheddar cheese make it irresistible.
- 🍲 Filling and Nourishing: Packed with potatoes and protein for a full meal.
- ❤️ Comfort Food Classic: Brings restaurant-quality warmth to your home kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk and ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. (Note: the texture may change slightly due to dairy.)
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
FAQ
Q: Can I use leftover baked potatoes?
A: Yes! Leftover baked or mashed potatoes work perfectly and save time.
Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
A: Skip the bacon and ham, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more cheese or sautéed mushrooms for richness.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after a day in the fridge.
Q: How can I make it extra creamy?
A: Stir in extra sour cream or a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Conclusion
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is pure comfort in a bowl — thick, creamy, and full of flavor from bacon, cheddar, and tender potatoes. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner, a cozy lunch, or a meal-prep favorite, this recipe will warm hearts and fill stomachs. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back for seconds — and maybe even thirds. 🥣✨
