Introduction
Nothing says comfort food quite like a piping hot bowl of loaded baked potato soup. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavors, this indulgent dish is a go-to meal for cozy nights, family dinners, and even casual get-togethers. The combination of velvety potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tangy sour cream creates a flavor-packed experience that is both satisfying and soul-soothing.
Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned chef, mastering loaded baked potato soup is easier than you think. With a few carefully chosen ingredients and some simple techniques, you can recreate this timeless classic at home. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile—you can tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or taste buds.
If you’re wondering which potatoes to use for the creamiest soup, check out this guide to potato varieties. Selecting the right potatoes is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your soup.
Ingredients for Loaded Baked Potato Soup
Crafting the perfect loaded baked potato soup starts with the right ingredients. Below is a comprehensive list to help you prepare.
Core Ingredients
- Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes. Their starchy texture makes the soup creamy and thick.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy flavor that elevates the dish.
- Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
- Butter and flour: Essential for creating the roux, which thickens the soup.
- Heavy cream or milk: For a rich, creamy texture.
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best for a robust flavor.
- Sour cream: Balances the richness with its tangy profile.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance flavors.
Optional Ingredients
- Green onions or chives: Adds a fresh, bright finish.
- Garlic: Provides depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- Paprika or cayenne pepper: A spicy kick for those who like heat.
For guidance on making a roux, a crucial step in this recipe, consult this expert roux guide. A well-made roux is key to achieving a luxuriously creamy texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Loaded Baked Potato Soup
1: Preparing the Ingredients
- Bake or boil the potatoes: Baking enhances the potatoes’ natural sweetness, while boiling is faster. Peel and dice them into small chunks.
- Cook the bacon: Fry bacon strips until crispy, then crumble them into small pieces. Save some of the rendered bacon fat for extra flavor.
- Chop garnishes: Slice green onions or chives thinly for a fresh, colorful topping.
2: Make the Roux
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour to form a paste, cooking until it’s lightly golden (about 2–3 minutes).
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. This forms the creamy base for your soup.
3: Build the Soup
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and simmer for 10–15 minutes. Mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to release their starch, naturally thickening the soup.
- Stir in heavy cream, followed by shredded cheddar and sour cream. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup is smooth.
4: Add the Toppings
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and let your creativity shine:
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon, extra cheese, and chopped green onions or chives on top.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of creaminess.
Tips for Perfect Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the gold standard for their starchy composition, which yields a creamy texture.
- Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender for a completely smooth soup, or leave some chunks for a rustic, hearty feel.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and pepper in small increments, tasting as you go.
- Store and Reheat Properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy consistency.
For safe storage and reheating tips, visit FoodSafety.gov’s storage guidelines.
Popular Baked Potato Toppings
A baked potato is a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit your taste preferences. Here’s a list of both classic and creative options:
Classic Toppings
- Butter: Adds richness and enhances the natural flavor of the potato.
- Sour Cream: Creamy and tangy, it pairs perfectly with potatoes.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheese adds a gooey, indulgent touch.
- Chives or Green Onions: Fresh and mildly oniony for a pop of color and flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the potato’s flavor.
Protein-Rich Toppings
- Grilled Chicken: Diced or shredded for a hearty meal.
- Chili: Classic meat or vegetarian chili transforms your potato into a filling entrée.
- Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
- Plant-Based Proteins: Crumbled tofu, tempeh, or veggie sausage for a meat-free option.
Vegetarian-Friendly Toppings
- Steamed Broccoli: A healthy and delicious addition, especially with melted cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: Peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms add color and flavor.
- Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy, nutrient-packed, and slightly tangy.
- Salsa: Adds a zesty, fresh element.
Dairy Alternatives
- Greek Yogurt: A lighter, protein-rich substitute for sour cream.
- Vegan Cheese: Melts similarly to regular cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Cashew Cream: A creamy, nut-based topping that’s both vegan and indulgent.
Spices and Sauces
- Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For those who like a spicy kick.
- Garlic Butter: Infuses the potato with rich, savory flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for an aromatic touch.
- BBQ Sauce: A sweet and tangy complement to savory toppings.
Gourmet and Creative Toppings
- Smoked Salmon: Adds a luxurious, salty twist.
- Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, perfect for depth of flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbly and tangy for a Mediterranean flair.
- Pesto: Herbaceous and nutty for a unique twist.
Mix and match these toppings to create your own signature baked potato masterpiece! Whether you’re aiming for a simple side or a hearty meal, there’s a combination here for every craving.
Creative Variations
The beauty of loaded baked potato soup lies in its versatility. Here are some creative twists to customize your soup:
Vegetarian Version
- Replace bacon with smoked paprika or crumbled tempeh for a savory kick.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Low-Calorie Adaptation
- Substitute heavy cream with milk or unsweetened almond milk.
- Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
Gluten-Free Option
- Skip the roux and thicken the soup with a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water).
Spicy Kick
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat lovers.
baked potato calories
Calories in a Plain Baked Potato
- Small (about 5 oz or 138 g): ~130 calories
- Medium (about 7 oz or 173 g): ~160 calories
- Large (about 10 oz or 283 g): ~260 calories
Calories in a Baked Potato with Toppings
Adding common toppings significantly increases the calorie count. Here’s an estimate for typical toppings:
- Butter (1 tbsp): ~100 calories
- Sour Cream (2 tbsp): ~60 calories
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1/4 cup): ~110 calories
- Bacon Bits (1 tbsp): ~30 calories
- Chives (optional, minimal): ~1 calorie
Calorie Example for a Loaded Baked Potato
A large baked potato with 1 tbsp of butter, 2 tbsp of sour cream, and 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese:
- Potato: ~260 calories
- Butter: ~100 calories
- Sour Cream: ~60 calories
- Cheese: ~110 calories
Total: ~530 calories
For a healthier option, try using lower-calorie toppings like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or reduce the cheese portion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best potato for loaded baked potato soup?
Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which creates a creamy, thick soup. Yukon Gold potatoes are a good alternative for a slightly buttery flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores well and can be made up to two days in advance. Just reheat it on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.
How do I thicken or thin the soup?
- To thicken: Mash more potatoes directly in the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
- To thin: Stir in additional chicken broth or milk.
How long to bake a sweet potato at 400?
To bake a sweet potato at 400°F (204°C), it typically takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on the size of the sweet potato. Here’s a guide:
Cooking Time by Size
- Small sweet potatoes (4–6 oz): 40–45 minutes
- Medium sweet potatoes (6–8 oz): 50–55 minutes
- Large sweet potatoes (8–12 oz): 55–60 minutes
Steps for Perfectly Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Optional: Rub the sweet potatoes with a light coating of oil and sprinkle with salt for extra flavor.
- Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake until they are fork-tender and the skin is slightly wrinkled. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part with a knife or fork—it should slide in easily.
Pro Tip
For even cooking, turn the sweet potatoes halfway through the baking time. If you’re short on time, cutting the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise can reduce the baking time to about 30–40 minutes.
Can I freeze loaded baked potato soup?
While the soup can be frozen, it’s best to omit the dairy before freezing. Add the cream, sour cream, and cheese after thawing and reheating to prevent curdling.
What is loaded potato soup made of?
This version of loaded potato soup is made with ingredients that keep the dish flavorful while being pork-free:
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for their creamy, starchy consistency.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Acts as the soup base. For a vegetarian version, opt for vegetable broth.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a tangy, melty richness.
- Sour Cream: Balances the flavors with its creamy, tangy profile.
- Heavy Cream or Milk: For a velvety texture.
- Butter and Flour (Roux): Helps thicken the soup.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without pork.
- Optional Smoky Alternative: Use liquid smoke, smoked paprika, or a plant-based smoked sausage to replicate the depth of flavor bacon would add.
How Do You Thicken Loaded Potato Soup?
Without bacon fat, here are excellent ways to thicken your soup:
- Mashed Potatoes: Mash some of the cooked potatoes in the soup to naturally thicken it.
- Roux: Create a roux by cooking butter and flour together, then whisking it into the soup base.
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup.
- Creamy Additions: Add heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or sour cream for both thickness and richness.
Should I Cook Potatoes Before Adding to Soup?
No, you don’t need to cook the potatoes before adding them to the soup. Dice the raw potatoes and let them cook directly in the simmering broth. This ensures the potatoes absorb the flavors of the soup while softening perfectly.
How Do You Keep Potatoes from Getting Mushy in Potato Soup?
To prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy:
- Cut Uniform Pieces: Chop potatoes into equal-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Gently: Simmer the soup over low to medium heat rather than boiling it, which can break down the potatoes too quickly.
- Choose Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes hold their shape better in soups. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling, as they can become too soft.
- Add Potatoes at the Right Time: If your soup includes a long cooking process, add the potatoes halfway through to prevent overcooking.
Conclusion
Loaded baked potato soup is a dish that transcends seasons, occasions, and even skill levels. Whether you make it for a cozy night at home or a dinner party, its rich, savory flavors are bound to impress. With simple ingredients, creative customization options, and a touch of culinary finesse, this soup is a masterpiece of comfort food. It’s also versatile enough to suit any dietary preference, making it a universally loved choice for both casual and special gatherings.
So grab your ladle, garnish generously, and dive into a bowl of pure bliss. Your taste buds and your guests will thank you!