Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Loaded Baked Potato Soup (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious soup that will become your new comfort food obsession: Loaded Baked Potato Soup! This mouthwatering recipe is a creative twist on the classic baked potato, bringing together the warm, comforting flavors of roasted potatoes, savory herbs, and rich, velvety cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing main course, this soup is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients

• 4 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
• 1 cup milk (whole, low-fat or nonfat)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the diced potatoes, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in the flour, stirring to coat the potatoes evenly, and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture is lightly toasted.
6. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
8. Stir in the milk, reserving about 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese for topping.
9. Pour the soup into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese. If desired, garnish with chopped cilantro or additional shredded cheese.

Pro Tips for Success

* For an extra creamy soup, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking.
* To enhance the potato flavor, roast the diced potatoes in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the pot. This will give the soup a deeper, more complex taste.
* For a spicier kick, add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or use hot sauce to taste.
* Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack, for unique flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! Loaded Baked Potato Soup can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate or freeze the cooked soup and reheat when ready.

Q: How can I thicken the soup if it becomes too thin?
A: If the soup becomes too watery, try whisking in a little more flour (about 1-2 tablespoons) or adding a splash of heavy cream to restore the creamy texture.

Q: Can I use different types of potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Russet or Idaho potatoes will yield a slightly thicker, starchier soup, while Yukon Golds will produce a lighter, creamier result. Feel free to experiment with your favorite potato variety!

Get ready to cozy up with this mouthwatering Loaded Baked Potato Soup – perfect for a family dinner, game day gathering, or simply as a comforting treat for one!

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.