Classic Homemade Loaded Potato Soup
This Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is the ultimate cozy bowl for those nights when the wind is howling outside and you need a meal that feels like a warm hug. It captures everything you love about a loaded baked potato—smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and fresh chives—all swirled into a velvety, rich base that is thick enough to stand a spoon in.
Ingredients
- 6 large Russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup fresh chives chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Use a potato masher to crush about half of the potatoes to thicken the soup.
- Stir in the milk and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add 1.5 cups of the cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Ladle into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon, remaining cheese, and fresh chives.