Few dishes deliver the same level of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction as homemade loaded potato soup. Rich, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, this classic American soup transforms humble potatoes into a hearty, soul-soothing meal. Whether served as a main course on chilly evenings or as a starter for family dinners, loaded potato soup has earned its place as a comfort food staple.

This version is everything a creamy potato soup recipe should be: thick without being heavy, smooth yet full of tender potato chunks, and generously topped with cheese, bacon, and fresh green onions. Unlike thin or bland versions, this recipe balances richness with structure, delivering consistent results every time.

What truly sets the best potato soup apart is technique. Instead of relying on shortcuts, this recipe builds flavor step by step—starting with real butter and garlic, thickened naturally with a light roux, and finished with dairy for that signature velvety texture. The result is a restaurant-quality soup that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Loaded potato soup also happens to be incredibly versatile. It works for weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, casual gatherings, and even holiday menus when comfort food is the goal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fresh salads, or simple sandwiches, making it an easy crowd-pleaser.

If you’re looking for a homemade potato soup that feels indulgent but approachable, this recipe delivers in every way.

Why Loaded Potato Soup Is a Comfort Food Favorite

Potatoes have long been a cornerstone of American comfort cooking, valued for their affordability, versatility, and ability to absorb flavor. When simmered and combined with dairy, they create a naturally creamy base without requiring heavy processing.

Loaded potato soup takes inspiration from the classic loaded baked potato, incorporating familiar toppings like cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions. This combination creates layers of flavor—salty, savory, creamy, and fresh—that make every spoonful deeply satisfying.

The soup’s popularity also lies in its adaptability. It can be made thicker or thinner, blended smooth or left chunky, and customized with different cheeses, proteins, or seasonings. No matter the variation, the core appeal remains the same: cozy, comforting nourishment.

Ingredients

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
Add butter to the pot and melt. Stir in diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux.
Slowly whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–18 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Using a potato masher or immersion blender, lightly mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to thicken the soup while leaving chunks.
Stir in milk and heavy cream, allowing the soup to warm through without boiling.
Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until fully melted.
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, topped with bacon crumbles, extra cheese, and green onions.

Tips for the Creamiest Potato Soup

Use russet potatoes: Their high starch content naturally thickens the soup.
Don’t rush the roux: Cooking the flour properly prevents a raw taste.
Avoid boiling after adding dairy: Gentle heat keeps the soup smooth and prevents curdling.
Mash selectively: Leaving some potato chunks adds texture and visual appeal.

Variations and Customizations

Extra Cheesy: Add Monterey Jack or Colby cheese alongside cheddar.
Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with more milk or half-and-half.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and omit bacon, adding smoked paprika for depth.
Protein Boost: Stir in diced ham or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Loaded potato soup pairs beautifully with:

Crusty sourdough or garlic bread
Simple green salads with vinaigrette
Grilled cheese sandwiches
Roasted vegetables

For entertaining, serve the soup with a topping bar so guests can customize their bowls.

Storage and Reheating

This comfort food soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
Add a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much.

Freezing is possible, but texture may change slightly due to the dairy content.

Fun Fact: Why Potato Soup Thickens Naturally

Potatoes release starch as they cook, which naturally thickens liquid. This is why blending or mashing even a small portion of the potatoes creates a creamy consistency without relying solely on flour or cream.

The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup

A rich, creamy loaded potato soup made with tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and classic toppings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 420