Description
This easy baked potato soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with classic loaded potato flavors like crispy bacon, melted cheese, and chives. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect cozy meal for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, baked and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it forms a light golden roux.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
4. Stir in diced baked potatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
5. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 3: Blend for Creaminess
6. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
7. Stir in the milk or heavy cream and let it warm through for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Toppings
8. Mix in shredded cheese and sour cream, stirring until melted and combined.
9. Remove from heat and ladle into bowls.
10. Garnish with crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and extra shredded cheese.
Notes
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese.
- Loaded Potato Soup: Add cooked sausage or extra toppings like diced jalapeños.
- Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and sour cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup & Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked potato soup, easy potato soup, creamy potato soup, loaded potato soup, 30-minute soup