How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Soup

1. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy.

Remove from pot and set aside, leaving some drippings behind for flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add butter to the pot with the bacon drippings.

Sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Build the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to form a thick paste (roux).

Let it cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring the mixture stays smooth.

Add the diced potatoes and bring to a gentle boil.

4. Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft enough to mash.

Partially mash the potatoes in the pot for a thicker texture, or leave them chunky—your preference!

5. Add the Creamy Goodness

Stir in the milk, heavy cream, sour cream, shredded cheddar, and half of the cooked bacon.

Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until everything is creamy and well blended.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Top and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and load it up:

• Extra cheddar

• Crispy bacon

• Chopped green onions

• A dollop of sour cream

Each topping adds even more baked-potato flavor.

Tips for Best Results

✔ Use Russet Potatoes

They break down easily, creating a naturally creamy soup.

✔ Don’t Skip the Roux

It thickens the soup and prevents a watery consistency.

✔ Add Cheese Off the Heat

Keeps it smooth and prevents graininess.

✔ Adjust Texture Your Way

Mash more for a smooth soup, or leave bigger chunks for a hearty bite.

Delicious Variations

🔸 Loaded Potato & Ham Soup

Add diced cooked ham instead of bacon (or along with it!).

🔸 Spicy Ranch Potato Soup

Add ranch seasoning and diced jalapeños.

🔸 Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup

Stir in chopped steamed broccoli.

🔸 Lightened-Up Version

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use turkey bacon.

Why You’ll Make This Again and Again

Loaded Baked Potato Soup takes everything comforting about a classic baked potato and turns it into a spoon-friendly, soul-soothing meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, snowy days, potlucks, or meal-prep lunches. With its creamy base and rich layers of flavor, it’s one of those recipes that instantly becomes a household favorite.