Table of Contents
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy loaded baked potato soup—kid-friendly, stovetop-simple, and reminiscent of your favorite steakhouse version. Instead of pork bacon, we’ll use crispy seasoned plant-based or turkey-style strips. Garnish with cheddar, green onions, and extra crunchy bacon alternatives for the ultimate cozy bowl. Ideal for fall and winter nights and ready in one generous pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One‑pot simplicity: minimal cleanup and straightforward steps
Flavor-packed comfort: creaminess, savory toppings, and warm texture
Kid-approved: familiar flavors without strong seasoning
Perfect for cold nights and meal prepping—easy to scale
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Neutral oil (canola/olive) | 1 tbsp |
| 1 large onion, finely chopped | — |
| 2 garlic cloves, minced | — |
| 4 large russet potatoes (~2 lbs) | peeled, cubed |
| 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth | — |
| 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk) | — |
| 1 cup heavy cream (or cream alternative) | — |
| 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese | plus extra for topping |
| Salt & pepper | to taste |
| 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) | for smokiness |
| 4 oz crispy bacon alternative | plant-based, turkey-style, or crumbled smoked tofu |
| 2 green onions, sliced | for garnish |
| Optional: chopped chives or parsley | for garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Soup Base
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent (3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds till fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes
Add cubed potatoes, season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to coat.
Pour in broth, bring to boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 12–15 minutes.
Blend for Creaminess
Use an immersion blender (or mash partially by hand) to achieve desired consistency—smooth with some chunks for texture.
Build the Creamy Base
Stir in milk and cream, heating gently. Don’t boil.
Add shredded cheddar and stir until melted and soup is silky. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Top with Crunch
Separately, pan-fry your chosen bacon alternative until golden. Set aside.
Ladle soup into bowls, top generously with cheese, crispy strips, green onions, and fresh herbs.
Tips for the Best Creamy Potato Soup
Russet potatoes yield the best texture—fill your bowl, not the blender!
For thickness control: reduce broth if you want it thicker or add more for thinner consistency.
Make dairy-free: use cashew cream or coconut milk and skip the cheese—or sprinkle nutritional yeast.
Avoid blandness by tasting and adjusting seasoning right before serving.
Leftovers heat well—just add a splash of milk when reheating to refresh creaminess.
Variations to Customize
Loaded Veggie Bowl: Add sautéed bell peppers, corn, or broccoli florets before serving.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of mild chili or top with hot sauce.
Different Cheese: Switch cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or smoked cheese.
Protein Add-on: Stir in shredded chicken, cooked beans, or tofu for heartiness.
Meal Prep & Storage
Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, adding milk if needed.
Freeze: Cool completely, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Nutritional Highlights (Approximate per serving)
Calories: ~370 kcal
Protein: ~15g
Carbs: ~45g
Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~4g
Adjust cream and cheese for lighter options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What can I use instead of pork bacon?
Great alternatives include plant-based bacon, turkey-style strips, or crumbled smoked tofu for similar flavor and crunch.
Is this soup dairy-free or vegan adaptable?
Yes—opt for plant-based milk/cream and dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. Use vegan bacon alternative or omit entirely.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Absolutely! Make the soup, cool, and refrigerate. Warm it gently before serving and top with fresh garnishes.
Is the soup gluten-free?
Yes, if using gluten-free broth and verifying that your cheese or bacon alternative is gluten-free.
Can I add other veggies?
Yes—add corn, spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for more nutrients and color.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic croutons or crusty bread on the side
Mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette for freshness
Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta or dollop of Greek yogurt for tang
Conclusion
This Loaded Baked Potato Soup—now reimagined sans pork or alcohol—is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. It’s forgiving, customizable, and packed with flavor and nourishment. Whether feeding the family, prepping ahead, or craving classic comfort in a bowl, this recipe delivers. Ready for the next cozy night in?
