If you’re in the mood for a comforting and rich meal, look no further than this Loaded Potato Soup recipe. This creamy, cheesy soup is packed with flavor, featuring tender potatoes, fresh toppings, and a savory broth that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or for a special gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Read on to discover step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and plenty of variations to make it your own!

What Is Loaded Potato Soup?
Loaded Potato Soup is a thick, hearty soup made from soft, cooked potatoes, blended with a creamy base, and topped with all your favorite baked potato toppings. This version offers a rich, indulgent flavor, thanks to a combination of sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions. Each spoonful is a blend of creamy and savory goodness, with just the right texture for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients List for Loaded Potato Soup
For the Soup:
- 4-5 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
- 2 cups whole milk (or your preferred dairy or plant-based milk)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided, 1 cup for the soup, ½ cup for garnish)
- ½ cup sour cream
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
Toppings:
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- Croutons (optional for added crunch)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
This Loaded Potato Soup recipe can easily be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few popular substitutions and variations:
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or coconut milk) and dairy-free cheese. You can also find vegan sour cream alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour, or use cornstarch as a thickening agent. Make sure your broth is gluten-free as well.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese can add unique flavor profiles.
- Add Protein: Consider stirring in cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for extra protein and heartiness.
- Spicy Variation: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup, or top it with diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Loaded Potato Soup

1. Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Set them aside while you prepare the soup base.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 5-6 minutes, until they are soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the flour for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flavor, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes
Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to ensure the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily mashed with a fork.
5. Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks of potato for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend it until smooth, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Milk and Cheese
Stir in the milk and heavy cream (if using), and then add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated into the soup. Season the soup with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
7. Add Sour Cream and Green Onions
Once the soup has thickened to your liking, stir in the sour cream and green onions. These final ingredients add a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
How to Cook Loaded Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap, cooking Loaded Potato Soup is simple and involves these key steps:
- Prepare your potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into cubes.
- Cook the aromatics: Sauté onions and garlic in butter.
- Create the roux: Stir in flour to thicken the soup.
- Simmer the potatoes: Add the broth and potatoes, and cook until tender.
- Blend for texture: Blend part of the soup for a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate the dairy: Add milk, cheese, and sour cream for rich flavor.
- Finish with fresh toppings: Garnish with green onions, cheese, and other toppings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Loaded Potato Soup turns out perfect every time, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to let the potatoes overcook and become mushy. Keep an eye on them while they simmer.
- Skipping the Roux: The roux is essential for thickening the soup. Make sure to cook the flour for a couple of minutes to avoid a raw flour taste.
- Under-seasoning: Potatoes absorb salt easily, so be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
- Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, becoming bitter. Only sauté it for about a minute after adding to the onions.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Loaded Potato Soup is not just about flavor—it’s also about presentation. Here’s how to serve it in a way that looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Loaded Potato Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. You can also add croutons or crispy fried onions for extra texture. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Loaded Potato Soup
- Bread Bowls: For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds extra comfort and indulgence.
- Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with various garnishes like croutons, extra cheese, chopped herbs, and sour cream, so everyone can customize their bowl.
- Swirl of Cream: Add a swirl of sour cream or heavy cream on top of each bowl for an elegant touch.
Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Tips
- Prep Ahead: Chop the potatoes and vegetables in advance to save time when you’re ready to cook.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave, adding extra milk or broth if needed.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stove. Note that soups with dairy can separate slightly when frozen, so stir well after reheating.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It may thicken in the fridge, so just add a splash of milk or broth when reheating.
How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also top the soup with diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It’s not gluten-free by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk, cheese, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk, vegan cheese, and dairy-free sour cream.
Conclusion
This Loaded Potato Soup is a comforting, delicious dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a hearty meal. Rich with cheese, creamy potatoes, and fresh toppings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor. Enjoy!
PrintLoaded Potato Soup Recipe
Loaded Potato Soup is a rich and creamy comfort food made with tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner, offering a smooth and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Keywords include "creamy potato soup," "cheesy potato soup," and "hearty potato soup."
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth, then bring to a boil. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use a potato masher to slightly mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Simmer until soup is thick and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve garnished with green onions and extra cheese.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup.
- Adjust thickness by adding more broth or cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740 mg
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