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Creamy Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Bacon

creamy loaded baked potato soup with bacon - featured image

A rich, comforting 30-minute soup featuring a roux-thickened base, a mix of russet and Yukon Gold potatoes, smoky bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 large Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8–10 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of fat if desired.
  2. In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the onion and butter mixture. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a pale roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, and whole milk to prevent lumps. Add diced potatoes.
  5. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
  6. For chunky texture, mash about half the potatoes with a masher. For smooth texture, pulse with an immersion blender. Do not over-blend.
  7. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Ladle into bowls and top with remaining cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not freeze this soup as the dairy and potatoes do not freeze well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin. Grate your own cheese to prevent graininess.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato soup, bacon soup, creamy soup, comfort food, 30 minute meals, winter soup, loaded baked potato