Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
Once the potatoes are soft, you can partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot. This step ensures your soup is rich and smooth while keeping a satisfying bite.
Step 6: Add Dairy and Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the milk, heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the soup is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Step 7: Finish with Bacon and Garnish
Add half of the cooked bacon to the soup and stir. This infuses the soup with a smoky, savory flavor. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with remaining bacon, extra shredded cheddar, chopped chives or green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for that classic loaded baked potato experience.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for creamy soups because they break down beautifully when cooked.
- Control thickness: For a thicker soup, use less milk; for a thinner, more broth-like soup, add more.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap bacon with smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Add extra toppings: Crumbled cooked sausage, caramelized onions, or a sprinkle of Parmesan elevate the flavor even more.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for dipping.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- This soup also freezes well—store in airtight containers for up to 2 months and reheat gently on the stove.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Each spoonful tastes like a baked potato dressed up in its Sunday best, with all the toppings you love. Perfect for a chilly evening or anytime you want to treat yourself.
If you want, I can also create a lighter, healthier version of this soup that’s just as creamy and flavorful but lower in calories.
Do you want me to do that?
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