The Best Homemade Loaded Potato Soup – Cozy, Hearty & Easy Comfort Food Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, creamy potato soup to make you feel right at home. This Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is the kind of cozy comfort food that makes chilly nights better and turns simple ingredients into something truly special. It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfectly creamy — the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Whether you’re under the weather, craving a hearty lunch, or planning a comforting dinner, this easy stovetop potato soup delivers cozy perfection every time.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• ½ cup chopped onions
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream (for creaminess)
• 4 strips turkey bacon or beef bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Aromatics
   In a large soup pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
2. Add the Potatoes & Broth
   Stir in diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
3. Mash & Thicken
   Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes right in the pot — this helps thicken the soup while keeping some texture.
4. Add Milk & Cream
   Pour in the milk and heavy cream. Stir well and let the soup simmer gently (don’t boil!) for about 5–7 minutes, until slightly thickened.
5. Season & Add Flavor
   Stir in salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Make It Loaded!
   Remove the soup from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and sour cream until melted and smooth. Top each bowl with turkey bacon, green onions, and a sprinkle of extra cheese.

✨ Cooking Tip: For an even creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree half the soup before adding the cheese and toppings.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Make Ahead: Cook and cool the base soup, then reheat and add cheese and toppings before serving.
• Spice Control: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Recipe Variations

• Lighter Version: Use low-fat milk and skip the heavy cream. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken or bits of turkey sausage for extra heartiness.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon — add roasted mushrooms for a rich flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your loaded potato soup with:

• Warm crusty bread or garlic toast
• A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled turkey ham sandwiches for a cozy lunch combo

Conclusion

This Homemade Loaded Potato Soup is more than just a meal — it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for your family, a sick day, or just a chilly evening, it’s the perfect comfort dish that always hits the spot. Serve it fresh, top it generously, and enjoy every creamy spoonful.