There’s nothing cozier than a steaming bowl of Homemade Loaded Potato Soup on a chilly night. It’s creamy, rich, and filled with everything you love about comfort food — potatoes, cheese, bacon, and that smooth, buttery flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
The Story & Why Homemade Loaded Potato Soup Works
When I first made this soup, I was trying to use up a few leftover potatoes, but what came out of the pot was magic. Each bite had the perfect mix of creamy texture and smoky bacon crunch. The trick to a great Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is building flavor in layers — sautéing onions and garlic first, simmering the potatoes until tender, then melting in the cheese and cream at the end for a smooth finish.
If you love hearty bowls like this, the Loaded Baked Potato Soup offers that same baked-potato comfort in a spoon, while the Sausage Potato Soup adds a meaty twist that’s perfect for fall dinners.
Homemade Loaded Potato Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a thicker texture.
- Stir in milk, sour cream, and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Top with crispy bacon and green onions before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Table of Contents
Ingredients and Quick Preparation
You’ll need:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or chives for garnish
How to Make It:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes.
- Mash part of the potatoes for thickness.
- Stir in milk, sour cream, and cheese until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with bacon and green onions before serving.
This version delivers a creamy texture that’s both indulgent and simple. If you prefer something with a little spice, the Cajun Potato Soup brings that extra kick while keeping the same cozy, creamy base.
Flavor Tips and Add-ins
One of the best parts about Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is how easily you can customize it. You can mix in roasted garlic for extra depth, or replace half the potatoes with cauliflower to make it lighter. Add a splash of heavy cream for richness or toss in corn for a touch of sweetness.
For more creamy, hearty meals, the Creamy Cowboy Soup offers a smoky, beefy twist that pairs perfectly with crusty bread. And if you’re in the mood for something quick, the Busy Day Soup gives you all the flavor without the wait.
You can also get creative with toppings crispy onions, extra cheese, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt. Each variation brings new character to this classic comfort dish.
Why It’s the Perfect Family Dinner
Homemade Loaded Potato Soup isn’t just delicious — it’s practical. Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup simple. The ingredients are affordable, and the recipe doubles easily for meal prep. It’s the kind of dinner that feels special but doesn’t take hours.
If your family loves creamy soups, the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers that same rich satisfaction with a healthy twist. And when you want a meal that blends cheese and tomato comfort, the Creamy Lasagna Soup hits the spot every time.
Storage & Meal Prep
This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together overnight. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats perfectly on the stove or in the microwave.
For long-term storage, freeze without adding cheese or sour cream; stir those in after thawing for the best texture. Pair it with salad or warm rolls for a complete meal.
And if you ever crave something soothing for colder months, the Italian Penicillin Soup is another must-try wholesome, flavorful, and packed with cozy vibes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use instant potatoes?
For best texture, stick with fresh potatoes. Instant ones can work in a pinch but will be softer.
2. How do I thicken the soup?
Mash some potatoes directly in the pot or stir in a little flour before adding the broth.
3. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon, or replace it with crispy chickpeas for crunch.
4. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients except the dairy, then cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4. Stir in milk, sour cream, and cheese before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is one of those recipes that never fails to bring people together. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of the flavors that make home cooking special. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches for the week, or just need a warm bowl of comfort after a long day, this soup is pure happiness in a pot.