There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Loaded Potato Cheese Soup to turn an ordinary evening into a cozy, comforting one. Thick, creamy, and full of cheesy flavor, this soup feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the ultimate comfort food rich, satisfying, and topped with all your favorites: crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and fresh chives.
Made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy families, lazy weekends, or whenever you need a little warmth.
Loaded Potato Cheese Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings.
- Add butter and onion to the pot; cook until translucent. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour, whisking until smooth. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking to combine.
- Add potatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with bacon, cheese, and chives before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Table of Contents
The Story & Why Loaded Potato Cheese Soup Works
The inspiration for this Loaded Potato Cheese Soup came from my favorite diner that served a version so creamy, it practically melted on the spoon. I wanted to recreate that flavor at home but with a few shortcuts to make it easier for everyday cooking.
The result? A rich, velvety soup that delivers the same bold flavors without any complicated steps. Everything happens in one pot, from crisping the bacon to blending the creamy base. It’s comfort food made simple and yes, it’s just as good as it looks.
If you love creamy soups like this, try the Loaded Baked Potato Soup or the Crockpot Loaded Baked Potato Soup both classics that bring the same cozy vibe.
Ingredients and Quick Preparation
You’ll need:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
How to Make It:
- In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of drippings.
- Add butter and onion to the pot; cook until translucent. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour, whisking until smooth. Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk, whisking to combine.
- Add potatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with bacon, cheese, and chives before serving.
If you enjoy bold flavors, the Cajun Potato Soup brings a zesty Southern twist while keeping that creamy goodness you love.
Flavor Tips and Add-ins
This soup is endlessly versatile. Here are some fun ways to make your Loaded Potato Cheese Soup even more amazing:
- Add diced ham or shredded chicken for extra protein.
- Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for deeper flavor.
- Stir in a handful of corn or broccoli for color and texture.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for warmth.
If you love hearty, full-flavored meals, the Creamy Cowboy Soup is another satisfying option that brings a smoky, beefy kick to the table.
Why It’s the Perfect Family Dinner
This recipe ticks all the boxes easy, filling, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. Loaded Potato Cheese Soup brings restaurant-level flavor without the effort, and it’s made with affordable ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
It’s a one-pot wonder that saves on cleanup and can easily feed a crowd. If you’re craving something lighter yet just as satisfying, the Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a great alternative that doesn’t skip the flavor.
Storage & Meal Prep
Leftovers? Even better the next day. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm slowly over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
If you’re a fan of quick, weeknight-friendly recipes, the Busy Day Soup and One Pot Potato Soup are both easy options that come together in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon, or replace it with crispy chickpeas.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Swap the flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener.
3. Can I use red potatoes instead of russet?
Yes, but red potatoes hold their shape better, so the soup will be a bit chunkier.
4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Just keep the toppings separate until serving to keep everything fresh.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 390 kcal | 15 g | 36 g | 18 g |
Balanced, rich, and satisfying perfect for cold nights or family dinners.
If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food, don’t miss the Italian Penicillin Soup wholesome and full of cozy flavor.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato Cheese Soup is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary comfort. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with layers of flavor from crispy bacon, soft potatoes, and melted cheddar. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend indulgence, this soup is pure happiness in a bowl.
A single pot, a handful of ingredients, and 40 minutes that’s all you need to make the best homemade comfort meal of the season.