Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and poke them several times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until tender. Let the potatoes cool, then peel and dice them into small cubes.
Tip: If you’re short on time, you can boil the potatoes instead.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the potatoes bake, cook the bacon in a large pot or skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot (if desired) for added flavor.
Step 3: Make the Soup Base
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly.
Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the milk and heavy cream, then add the diced baked potatoes. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This creates a creamy base while leaving some potato chunks for texture. (Alternatively, you can blend half the soup in a regular blender, then return it to the pot.)
Step 5: Add the Flavor
Stir in the shredded cheese, sour cream, and crumbled bacon (reserve some for garnish). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional cheese, green onions, and the reserved bacon bits. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Use Russet Potatoes: Their high starch content makes for a creamy and smooth soup.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk or broth.
Cheese Selection: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a sharp white cheddar for added depth.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika for a hint of that smoky flavor bacon provides.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort Food at Its Best: This soup is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for cozy nights in.
Customizable: Add extra toppings like chives, crispy fried onions, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture.
