There’s something about a warm bowl of creamy potato soup that feels like a comforting hug on a chilly day. The rich, velvety texture, the savory depth of flavor, and the irresistible toppings of crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh green onions make it an all-time favorite in my kitchen. Whether I’m making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup never fails to impress.

What I love most about this potato soup is how simple yet satisfying it is. The combination of tender potatoes, a creamy base, and a hint of smoky bacon creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s easy to make, incredibly filling, and can be customized to suit different tastes. If you’re looking for a go-to comfort food recipe, this one deserves a spot in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

Rich & Creamy: The silky texture makes every bite incredibly satisfying.
Packed with Flavor: A perfect mix of savory, smoky, and cheesy goodness.
Customizable: You can switch up the toppings or ingredients to fit your preferences.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and everyday ingredients make this soup a breeze.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a casual family meal, this soup always hits the spot.

What Type of Potatoes Should I Use?

The best potatoes for this soup are russet potatoes because they break down easily, creating that smooth and creamy texture. Their high starch content helps thicken the soup naturally. If you prefer a chunkier soup, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great option since they hold their shape better while still adding a rich, buttery taste. Red potatoes can work too, but they won’t give the same velvety consistency as russets.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about this creamy loaded potato soup is its versatility. Here are some ways you can swap ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences:

Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream, and swap out butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Gluten-Free Alternative: If thickening with flour, replace it with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Meat-Free Version: Omit the bacon or use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. You can also add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even parmesan for a different twist.
Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even Greek yogurt to cut down on calories while maintaining creaminess.

Ingredients for This Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating a rich, flavorful, and comforting bowl of soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potatoes: The star of the dish! Russet potatoes break down beautifully for a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds add a buttery richness.
Butter: Adds depth and richness to the soup while helping to sauté the aromatics.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics provide a savory foundation and enhance the overall flavor.
Flour: Helps thicken the soup, creating that perfect creamy consistency.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The liquid base of the soup that adds depth and richness. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Milk & Heavy Cream: Creates the velvety texture that makes this soup so comforting.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty crunch that elevates the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the soup for an irresistibly cheesy finish. Sharp cheddar works best for a bold flavor.
Green Onions: A fresh, slightly spicy contrast to the richness of the soup.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing every ingredient.
Paprika (Optional): A dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle warmth and smokiness.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Keep about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use butter or oil instead.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add butter, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup. If you like a little extra depth, you can also add a pinch of smoked paprika at this stage.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup later.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes, season with salt and black pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the potatoes. If you prefer a chunkier texture, simply mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher.

Step 6: Stir in Dairy and Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the soup is rich and creamy.

Step 7: Add Bacon and Final Touches

Crumble the crispy bacon and stir most of it into the soup, reserving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld all the flavors together.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon, extra shredded cheese, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy!

How Long to Cook the Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

This soup comes together in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Cooking the bacon: About 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Sautéing onions and garlic: Around 3-5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Simmering the potatoes: 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender.
Melting the cheese and final simmer: Another 5 minutes to blend the flavors together.

The total time may vary slightly depending on how thick you like your soup or if you blend it for extra creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

Use Russet Potatoes for a Creamier Texture: Their high starch content helps thicken the soup naturally. Yukon Golds are great if you want a chunkier consistency.
Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking the flour with butter and aromatics ensures the soup thickens properly and has a smooth texture.
Blend or Mash to Your Preference: If you like a silky texture, use an immersion blender. For a chunkier soup, just mash some potatoes with a fork.
Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese creates a creamier soup.
Add Dairy at the End: To prevent curdling, stir in the milk and cream after the potatoes have cooked and the heat is lower.
Adjust Thickness as Needed: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
Season as You Go: Potatoes absorb salt, so taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this soup is simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Skipping the Roux: If you don’t cook the flour properly, your soup may have a raw flour taste and won’t thicken as well.
Adding Dairy Too Soon: Pouring in milk or cream while the soup is still boiling can cause it to curdle. Add it at the end over low heat.
Overcooking the Potatoes: If you let the potatoes cook too long, they might turn into mush. Simmer them just until fork-tender.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It won’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated cheese, which can lead to a grainy texture.
Not Seasoning Enough: Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Skipping the Bacon Grease: Using it instead of extra butter gives the soup an added layer of smoky flavor.
Making It Too Thick or Thin: If it’s too thick, add a little extra broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
Forgetting the Toppings: The bacon, cheese, green onions, and sour cream make this soup extra special—don’t skip them!

What to Serve With Creamy Loaded Potato Soup

This hearty soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better. Here are some great options:

1. Crusty Bread

A warm, crispy baguette or sourdough bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy soup.

2. Garlic Bread

A buttery, garlicky slice of bread adds even more comfort to your meal.

3. Side Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A crispy, gooey grilled cheese is a classic pairing with any creamy soup.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a healthy contrast.

6. Crackers or Breadsticks

Something crunchy adds great texture alongside the smooth soup.

7. Baked Potatoes

If you love potatoes, why not double down with a loaded baked potato on the side?

8. A Light Protein

Grilled chicken or a simple turkey sandwich can round out the meal if you want extra protein.

Storage Instructions

This creamy loaded potato soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
Freezer: Because of the dairy content, freezing isn’t ideal—it can cause the soup to separate and become grainy when reheated. If you must freeze it, leave out the milk and cheese, then add them fresh when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, stirring often, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

Estimated Nutrition

While exact numbers depend on portion sizes and ingredient brands, here’s an approximate breakdown per one bowl (1.5 cups) of this creamy loaded potato soup:

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 900mg (varies based on broth and bacon used)
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g

For a lighter version, use less cheese, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and opt for turkey bacon or skip it entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this potato soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to maintain its creamy consistency.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook the bacon first, then add all ingredients (except dairy and cheese) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the milk, cream, and cheese at the end.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor.

4. How do I make this soup thicker?

If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. You can also mash some of the potatoes or mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).

5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy, and swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for extra flavor.

6. What’s the best way to reheat potato soup?

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and stir between each round.

7. Can I freeze this soup?

Technically, yes, but the texture may change due to the dairy. If you plan to freeze it, leave out the milk and cheese and add them when reheating.

8. How can I make this soup a full meal?

This soup is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with grilled chicken, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This creamy loaded potato soup is pure comfort in a bowl! Whether you make it for a cozy night in or a family gathering, it’s always a hit. Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and share it with friends and family so they can enjoy it too. Happy cooking!