As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, nothing is more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy potato soup. Rich, velvety, and packed with flavor, this homemade soup recipe is the ultimate dish for cozy nights. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, or a delicious meal prep option, this best loaded potato soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step recipe for the best creamy potato soup, share variations, and provide expert tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time. Let’s dive into this fall soup recipe that will warm you up from the inside out!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Soup
✔ Ultra Creamy & Flavorful – Rich, smooth, and packed with cheesy goodness.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients come together in just 30 minutes.
✔ Hearty & Filling – Loaded with potatoes, bacon, and cheese, making it a complete meal.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Adjust toppings and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for The Best Loaded Potato Soup
To make the best loaded potato soup, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and diced) – The star of the soup, giving it a creamy texture.
- 6 slices bacon (chopped) – Adds smoky, crispy goodness.
- 1 small onion (diced) – Provides depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – A must for any delicious soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Creates a flavorful base.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Gives the soup its ultra-creamy consistency.
- 1 cup whole milk – Helps balance the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the soup.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of spice.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a mild smoky depth.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Complements the hearty flavors.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Because everything’s better with cheese!
- ½ cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
- 2 green onions (chopped) – For garnish.
Optional Toppings:
✔ Extra crispy bacon
✔ More shredded cheese
✔ Chopped chives
✔ Hot sauce for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, melt butter and add the diced onion. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 5: Blend for Extra Creaminess (Optional)
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture while still leaving some chunks.
- Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Step 6: Add Cream & Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
- Let the soup warm through on low heat, stirring occasionally until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 7: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, shredded cheese, and extra sour cream.
- Serve hot and enjoy your loaded potato soup!
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Potato Soup
✔ Use Russet Potatoes – They break down easily and create a naturally creamy texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Dairy – Add milk and cream towards the end to prevent curdling.
✔ Adjust Thickness – If the soup is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, simmer longer.
✔ For a Healthier Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap bacon for turkey bacon.
✔ Make It Vegetarian – Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon.
Variations & Add-Ons
Want to customize your potato soup recipe? Try these variations!
1. Broccoli Cheddar Potato Soup
- Add 1 cup of chopped broccoli and extra sharp cheddar cheese for a cheesy broccoli twist.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Potato Soup
- Stir in chopped jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
3. Loaded Baked Potato Soup
- Add crumbled sausage, roasted garlic, and diced ham for extra indulgence.
4. Crockpot Creamy Potato Soup
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
5. Dairy-Free Potato Soup
- Use coconut milk instead of dairy and replace cheese with nutritional yeast.
What to Serve with Creamy Potato Soup
This fall soup is rich and hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
✔ Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping!
✔ Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic combo.
✔ Side Salad – A fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
✔ Garlic Butter Rolls – Soft, warm, and delicious.
How to Store & Reheat Potato Soup
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover creamy potato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Can You Freeze Potato Soup?
Yes, but with caution. Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen.
- Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly while stirring well.
Why This is the Best Loaded Potato Soup
✅ Rich & Creamy – The perfect balance of textures and flavors.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and quick cooking.
✅ Cozy & Comforting – The ultimate fall soup recipe for cold nights.
✅ Customizable – Adapt it to suit your taste and dietary needs.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Fall Soup
If you’re searching for the best loaded potato soup, this creamy potato soup recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Perfect for chilly evenings, holiday gatherings, or meal prep, it’s one of the best fall soups to make at home.
Try this potato soup recipe today and let us know your favorite toppings!
English 
French 
Spanish 
Portuguese