Craving a warm, comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes? This Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the perfect cozy dish! With creamy potatoes, melty cheddar, and a rich, velvety broth, every spoonful is packed with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a chilly evening or simply need a hug in a bowl, this recipe will be your new go-to comfort food!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
Gather these simple ingredients and follow the step-by-step guide to make this delicious, creamy soup.
Ingredients
- 4 potatoes, scrubbed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, diced
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- Fresh chives, for garnish
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Pierce the potatoes with a fork and microwave them for 12–15 minutes until tender. Once cooled, cut them into bite-sized chunks.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, stirring until soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring continuously. Gradually pour in the milk, half-and-half, and broth, whisking to keep the mixture smooth.
Step 4: Simmer and Season
Bring the soup to a light simmer, then season with salt, garlic salt, and black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Potatoes
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until fully combined. Add the diced potatoes, gently mashing some to achieve a creamy consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives and extra cheese.
The Best Time to Savor Your Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Nothing beats a hot bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup on a crisp fall evening! Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it the perfect dish for cozy nights, family dinners, or a satisfying lunch. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Hosting a gathering? Serve this soup in bread bowls for a restaurant-quality experience. Want a complete meal? Pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
For more delicious comfort food ideas, check out our Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.
What’s the best way to make this soup thicker?
If you prefer an even thicker consistency, mash more of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and vegan cheese alternatives. Coconut milk works well for a creamy texture.
What toppings go well with Loaded Baked Potato Soup?
Classic toppings include crispy turkey bacon, extra shredded cheese, chives, or even roasted chickpeas for added crunch.
Looking for another baked-inspired dish? Try our Sushi Bake Recipe!
Pro Tips for Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Want to take your Loaded Baked Potato Soup to the next level? Follow these expert tips to ensure the perfect texture and flavor every time!
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes create a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds add a buttery richness. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t break down well.
- Don’t skip the flour step: Cooking the flour for a minute before adding liquids helps prevent a raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, thick broth.
- For extra creaminess: Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or mash more potatoes before serving.
- Control the salt: Since cheese and broth can be salty, add salt gradually and taste as you go.
- Make it heartier: Stir in roasted chickpeas, diced turkey sausage, or extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
- Avoid curdling: To prevent the dairy from separating, keep the heat at a gentle simmer and avoid boiling once the milk and cheese are added.
- Customize the toppings: Try crispy turkey bacon, caramelized onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a flavor boost.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Loaded Baked Potato Soup while keeping it delicious.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Due to the dairy content, freezing may change the texture. If you must freeze it, do so before adding the cheese and sour cream. Reheat and stir them in afterward.
- Reheating on the stove: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or broth if the soup thickens too much.
- Microwave method: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each one to maintain a smooth consistency.
Perfect Pairings for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Complement the richness of this soup with these delicious pairings!
- Crusty Garlic Bread: The crispy texture pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrients.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic comfort food combo that never disappoints.
- Homemade Cornbread: A slightly sweet, crumbly addition that complements the savory flavors.
Looking for another cozy dish? Try this Loaded Baked Potato Soup recipe for more inspiration!
Now that you’ve got a steaming bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup, it’s time to enjoy every creamy, cheesy spoonful! Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or pairing it with your favorite sides, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.
We’d love to hear from you! Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments below—what toppings did you add to make it your own?
Serving Suggestions & Variations
For a fun twist, try serving this soup in a bread bowl for an indulgent, restaurant-style experience. Want to add some heat? A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick!
If you’re looking for more cozy comfort food recipes, check out our Sushi Bake Recipe or our Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe!
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Enjoy every spoonful, and happy cooking!
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7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Total Time: 35
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting—this **Loaded Baked Potato Soup** is the ultimate cozy meal! Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s packed with tender potatoes, melty cheddar, and a rich, velvety broth. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a hug in a bowl!
Ingredients
– 4 potatoes, scrubbed
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup yellow onion, diced
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups low-fat milk
– 1 cup half-and-half
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
– 1/2 tsp garlic salt (plus more to taste)
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup sour cream
– Fresh chives, for garnish
Instructions
1. First, pierce the potatoes with a fork and microwave for 12–15 minutes until tender. Let cool, then cut into chunks.
2. Next, in a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking until soft.
3. After that, whisk in flour and stir for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk, half-and-half, and broth, whisking until smooth.
4. Then, bring to a light simmer, adding salt, garlic salt, and pepper. Cook until thickened, about 5–7 minutes.
5. Finally, stir in cheddar cheese and sour cream. Add potatoes, gently mashing some for a creamy texture. Serve hot, garnished with chives and extra cheese!
Notes
For extra crunch, top with crispy turkey bacon or seasoned roasted chickpeas!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 502kcal
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 18g