If there’s one thing Chili’s does right—besides those legendary fajitas—it’s their baked potato soup. Thick, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors, this soup is the perfect dish to warm your soul. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the restaurant version or just love hearty soups, recreating Chili’s baked potato soup at home is surprisingly easy. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it even better than the original.
In this post, we’re diving deep into how to make Chili’s-style baked potato soup from scratch. From the ingredient list to step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, FAQs, and even nutritional info, you’ll have everything you need to bring this restaurant classic to your kitchen.
Table of contents
- What Is Chili’s Baked Potato Soup?
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Chili’s Baked Potato Soup
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Potato Soup
- Creative Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Chili’s Potato Soup
- Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Final Thoughts on Homemade Chili’s Baked Potato Soup
What Is Chili’s Baked Potato Soup?
Chili’s baked potato soup is a rich and creamy soup made with tender baked potatoes, flavorful seasonings, and a creamy broth. The restaurant version is topped with shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for the ultimate loaded baked potato vibe. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, especially when paired with warm bread or a side salad.
For an even simpler version of this classic, you might love trying a 4-Ingredient Potato Soup—perfect for busy weeknights or quick cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to recreate Chili’s baked potato soup at home:
For the Soup Base
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | 4 large, baked | Peel and dice after baking. |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | For sautéing the onions. |
| Yellow Onion | 1 medium, diced | Adds depth to the flavor. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Optional, for extra flavor. |
| All-Purpose Flour | ¼ cup | Thickens the soup. |
| Chicken Broth | 4 cups | Use low-sodium for better control of salt. |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | Makes the soup rich and creamy. |
| Milk | 1 cup | Helps lighten the creaminess. |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded | For melting into the soup. |
For the Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | 4 slices, cooked and crumbled | Adds smoky crunch. |
| Green Onions | ¼ cup, sliced | Brings freshness. |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | ½ cup | Extra cheesiness on top. |
| Sour Cream | ¼ cup | Optional, for added tang. |
How to Make Chili’s Baked Potato Soup
Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this delicious soup:
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wash and dry the russet potatoes, then prick them with a fork to let steam escape. Bake directly on the oven rack for 50–60 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool slightly, then peel and dice into bite-sized pieces.
For a variation, consider trying Hash Brown Potato Soup, which uses hash browns instead of baked potatoes for a faster option.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic (if using) and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir until fully combined. Cook the mixture for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add Broth and Cream
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and milk.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Cheese
Gently fold in the diced baked potatoes. Let the soup simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the soup is thick and creamy.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Feel free to add other seasonings like paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Step 7: Serve and Top
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings—crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.
- Easy to Customize: Add more toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home: Save money and skip the wait—this tastes just like the Chili’s version!
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Potato Soup
- Bake the Potatoes Ahead of Time: Baking the potatoes adds a deeper, roasted flavor. You can bake them a day in advance to save time.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melted into the soup gives it that signature creamy texture.
- Thicker Soup? Mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher to thicken the base naturally.
- For a Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use low-fat milk.
- Use a Blender (Optional): For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before adding the diced potatoes back in.
For an extra creamy and indulgent option, consider pairing your soup with one of these Best Sandwiches for Potato Soup to round out the meal.
Creative Variations
There’s no rule that says you have to stick to the classic version of baked potato soup. Here are some creative twists to elevate your bowl of creamy comfort:
Italian-Inspired Potato Soup
Add Italian sausage (mild or spicy) and a handful of fresh spinach. Stir in some grated Parmesan and serve with a slice of crusty garlic bread.
Cheesy Broccoli Potato Soup
Add steamed broccoli florets to the soup for a hearty, veggie-packed meal. Stir in extra sharp cheddar or even Parmesan for a bold, cheesy flavor.
Southwest Potato Soup
Spice things up by adding diced green chiles, a dash of smoked paprika, and cumin. Top with crushed tortilla chips, avocado slices, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a Tex-Mex flair.
Loaded Sweet Potato Soup
Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a natural sweetness. Complement the flavor with crispy bacon, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Smoky Bacon and Gouda Twist
Enhance the soup by using smoked Gouda as the primary cheese. Pair it with extra crispy smoked bacon for a rich, smoky taste in every bite.
Vegan Baked Potato Soup
Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use coconut milk or cashew cream for the base. Skip the cheese and bacon, and top with roasted chickpeas and nutritional yeast for a cheesy, crunchy finish.
Seafood Potato Chowder
Transform your soup into a coastal-inspired chowder by adding chunks of cooked shrimp, crab, or lobster. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a fresh finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chili’s Potato Soup
Yes, Chili’s serves a Loaded Baked Potato Soup on their menu. It’s a creamy, hearty soup made with baked potatoes and topped with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. It’s a fan favorite for those who love comforting, indulgent soups.
The default toppings for Chili’s Loaded Baked Potato Soup include shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. However, toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or additional spices (e.g., paprika) are not typically included unless requested or added as a customization.
No, Chili’s Loaded Baked Potato Soup is not vegetarian. This is because the soup is made with a chicken broth base and frequently includes bacon as a topping. However, if you want to make a vegetarian version, you’d simply need to substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth. Additionally, skipping the bacon topping would ensure it aligns with a vegetarian diet.
Chili’s Loaded Baked Potato Soup contains approximately 30–35 grams of carbs per serving, depending on the portion size and exact preparation. The carbs primarily come from the potatoes, milk, and any additional toppings like cheese or bacon. If you’re tracking carbs, you may want to confirm with the restaurant or adjust portion sizes accordingly.
The Chicken Enchilada Soup is the healthiest option at Chili’s, with fewer calories and fat than creamier soups. Skip the toppings for an even lighter choice.
No, Applebee’s doesn’t offer potato soup. Their soup options include Chicken Tortilla, French Onion, and Tomato Basil, but availability may vary by location.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400–450 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts on Homemade Chili’s Baked Potato Soup
Chili’s baked potato soup is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. It’s rich, hearty, and brimming with comforting flavors that make every bite a delight. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this soup is guaranteed to impress.
If you’re looking for more potato soup inspiration, try out this Paula Deen Potato Soup Recipe for a Southern twist or experiment with other classic soups from the Marina Recipes collection.
So grab some potatoes, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy, soul-warming goodness. Trust me, once you make it at home, you’ll never go back to the restaurant version! 🥔🍲✨
