Loaded Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then this Loaded Baked Potato Soup is just what you need! This soup is creamy, cozy, and absolutely comforting. It’s made with tender potatoes, sweet aromatics, and sharp cheddar cheese, all coming together to create a velvety finish that warms your soul. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a favorite in your household too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This loaded baked potato soup comes together in just about an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the rich flavors and creamy texture of this soup. It’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal.
• Comforting flavor: Each spoonful of this loaded baked potato soup is like a warm embrace, packed with cheesy goodness and hearty vegetables.
• Versatile toppings: Customize your bowl with your favorite toppings—think crispy bacon bits (or veggie alternatives), sour cream, or extra cheese!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our loaded baked potato soup. These are pantry staples that you might already have on hand!

For the Soup

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Variations

This loaded baked potato soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to make it your own:

• Add some greens: Toss in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try using different types of cheese such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use plant-based cream alternatives to keep it creamy without any animal products.
• Spice it up: Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat in your soups.

How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Vegetables

Place a large soup pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for about 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant and softened. This step is crucial because it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions and garlic while creating a lovely aromatic base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes into the pot along with your chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Cooking them slowly allows their flavor to infuse into the broth.

Step 3: Mash Some Potatoes

Once your potatoes are perfectly tender, lightly mash some of them in the pot with a potato masher or fork. This will give your soup body while still leaving plenty of chunks for texture! Now stir in the milk, heavy cream, and half of the cheddar until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Season It Up

Season your delicious mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it simmer uncovered for another 3 to 5 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Ladle your loaded baked potato soup into bowls and top each serving with the remaining cheddar cheese and fresh chives. Enjoy each spoonful warm—it’s bound to bring joy on any day!

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Making the perfect loaded baked potato soup is easy with just a few helpful tips to elevate your dish! Here are some secrets to ensure your soup is creamy, delicious, and full of flavor:

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes as they are high in starch, which results in a creamier texture when cooked. Their fluffy interior blends beautifully into the soup.
• Sauté Your Aromatics: Taking the time to sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery not only enhances their flavors but also adds depth to your broth. This step brings out their natural sweetness, making your soup even more inviting.
• Don’t Skip the Mashing: Lightly mashing some of the potatoes in the pot creates a heartier consistency. This technique ensures every bite is filled with thick, comforting goodness while still leaving chunks for texture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh chives not only brightens up the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your soup. Fresh herbs can elevate any dish and make it feel gourmet!
• Let It Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer after adding milk and cheese helps meld all those beautiful flavors together. This step is crucial for creating that rich and creamy finish we all love.

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Serving loaded baked potato soup is an opportunity for creativity! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish can be presented beautifully and enjoyed in various ways.

Garnishes

To take your bowl of soup from good to glorious, consider adding these garnishes:
* Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar on top adds richness and that lovely melty factor.
* Crispy Bacon Bits (or Vegan Alternative): For a delightful crunch without using bacon, try crispy roasted chickpeas or seasoned sunflower seeds.
* Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh bite that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

Pairing your loaded baked potato soup with a few carefully chosen side dishes will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some recommendations:
* Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread complements the warmth of the soup perfectly. It’s ideal for dipping!
* Simple Side Salad: A mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the soup.
* Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots bring vibrant colors and flavors to the table.
* Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheesy goodness are delightful companions that soak up every drop of that creamy soup.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a cozy bowl of loaded baked potato soup! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This loaded baked potato soup is a fantastic option for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and can easily be frozen for later use, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Ensure to label the container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
• If rewarming from frozen, consider adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about loaded baked potato soup that may help you out!

Can I make loaded baked potato soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and maintain all other ingredients as listed for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does loaded baked potato soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, loaded baked potato soup will last in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing!

Can I freeze loaded baked potato soup?

Yes, you can freeze this delicious loaded baked potato soup! Just make sure it’s cooled down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

What can I add to my loaded baked potato soup?

Feel free to customize by adding toppings such as crumbled bacon alternatives, diced green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream substitute!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this comforting loaded baked potato soup as much as I do! It’s a special recipe that brings warmth and happiness with each spoonful. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for a busy week ahead, it’s bound to become a favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twist on this classic dish—happy cooking!