If you’re craving a warm, hearty soup that combines creamy potatoes, cheddar cheese, and flavorful seasonings, then this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup is for you! Perfect for those chilly nights when you want a comforting, homemade dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors without leaving your kitchen. This recipe brings together all the rich, velvety goodness of Longhorn Steakhouse’s famous soup, with easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps that anyone can follow. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this loaded potato soup is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and filled with cheesy goodness, this soup is the ultimate comfort food.
Easy to Make: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this soup is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients for Copycat Longhorn Loaded Potato Soup

To make this hearty soup, you will need the following ingredients:

1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and depth to the soup base.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to a creamy consistency.
3 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base for the soup.
3 cups milk: Enhances the creamy texture. Use whole milk for the best results.
16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (mild): Gives the soup its signature cheesy flavor.
1/2 cup instant potato flakes: Helps thicken the soup while adding potato flavor.
2 large russet potatoes, diced and peeled: The star of the soup, adding texture and heartiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; start with 2 teaspoons each and adjust as needed.
Bacon bits: For a smoky, crunchy topping.
Extra cheddar cheese: For garnishing, adds a nice finish to the soup.
Green onions, diced: Adds freshness and a slight onion flavor.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Melting the Butter and Mixing the Flour

Begin by melting 1/4 cup of butter in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Once melted, gradually add the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour while stirring constantly. Cook until the flour and butter blend together, forming a smooth paste. This mixture, known as a roux, will help thicken the soup.

2. Adding the Broth, Milk, and Cheese

Slowly pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken. Then, add 3 cups of milk and keep stirring until the soup starts to simmer. Once simmering, gradually stir in the 16 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the soup is smooth.

3. Blending for Creaminess

Add 1/2 cup of instant potato flakes to the soup. Stir well to combine and let it sit for a minute to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. An immersion blender is ideal for blending the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can blend it in batches using a regular blender.

4. Cooking the Potatoes

Once the soup base is smooth, bring it to a light boil. Add the diced russet potatoes and stir constantly to ensure they cook evenly and the soup doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. Continue cooking until the potatoes are al dente — tender but still firm to the bite. For a quicker option, boil the diced potatoes separately until al dente, then add them to the soup before serving.

5. Finishing Touches and Serving

Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and diced green onions for added flavor and texture. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Loaded Potato Soup

Achieving the Right Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more milk if the soup is too thick or additional potato flakes if it’s too thin.
Flavor Adjustments: Taste and season as you go. Don’t be afraid to add extra salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Blending Tips: For an ultra-smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splashes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook to ensure they remain al dente. Overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes.
Not Stirring Constantly: Stir frequently, especially after adding cheese and potatoes, to prevent the soup from sticking to the pot.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes superior to pre-shredded varieties. Fresh potatoes also provide the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Garnishing Suggestions: Top with extra cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Pairing with Sides: Serve with a side of crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Creative Serving Options: Consider serving the soup in a bread bowl or small mason jars for a fun twist at parties.

Equipment Needed for the Recipe

3-quart saucepan
Whisk
Immersion blender or regular blender
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle
Knife and cutting board

How to Store Leftover Loaded Potato Soup

Refrigerating: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Variations and Swaps for Loaded Potato Soup

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the bacon bits.
Different Cheeses: Try using smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time? Yes, this soup can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
How Do I Adjust the Thickness? If the soup is too thick, add more milk or broth. If too thin, add more potato flakes or blend in extra cooked potatoes.
How to Make It Spicier? Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for some heat.

Conclusion

This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Loaded Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, packed with creamy, cheesy flavors that will leave you wanting more. Try this easy recipe and bring the taste of Longhorn Steakhouse right to your home kitchen. Don’t forget to share your creations and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!