Easy Loaded Potato Soup Recipe in 30 Minutes

The easiest loaded potato soup recipe requires just 10 ingredients and 30 minutes. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add diced potatoes, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until tender, blend partially, then stir in cream, bacon, and cheese. Top with extra bacon, cheddar, and chives for that perfect loaded effect.

Simple Loaded Potato Soup: Comfort Food Made Easy

Nothing beats a warm bowl of loaded potato soup on a chilly day. This straightforward recipe delivers restaurant-quality results without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. You'll create a creamy, flavorful soup packed with all the classic loaded potato toppings - bacon, cheese, and chives - using everyday kitchen tools and a single pot.

Why This Loaded Potato Soup Recipe Works for Busy Cooks

Many potato soup recipes require hours of simmering or specialized equipment, but this easy loaded potato soup recipe solves those problems. The secret lies in using russet potatoes that break down perfectly during cooking, creating natural creaminess without heavy cream (though we add a touch for richness). By partially blending the soup, you get that signature thick texture in just 30 minutes - no immersion blender required.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Loaded Potato Soup

Quality ingredients make all the difference in this easy loaded potato soup recipe. Don't skip the smoked paprika - it adds depth that mimics the long cooking times of traditional recipes. Here's what you'll need:

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters
Russet potatoes	3 lbs, peeled and diced	Naturally starchy for perfect creaminess
Bacon	6 slices, cooked and crumbled	Adds smoky flavor base and crispy topping
Yellow onion	1 medium, finely chopped	Sweetness without overpowering
Chicken broth	4 cups	Better flavor than vegetable broth for this recipe
Heavy cream	1 cup	Creates luxurious texture (substitute half-and-half)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Loaded Potato Soup

Follow these simple steps for foolproof loaded potato soup every time. This quick loaded potato soup recipe works whether you're a beginner or experienced cook.

1. Cook bacon in large pot until crisp. Remove bacon, leaving 2 tablespoons fat in pot.
2. Sauté onions in bacon fat for 5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
3. Add potatoes, broth, bay leaf, and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Remove bay leaf. Use potato masher to partially mash soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
5. Stir in cream, 3/4 of the cooked bacon, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Heat through without boiling.
6. Season with black pepper, smoked paprika, and additional salt to taste.

Pro Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Soup

These simple adjustments will elevate your easy loaded potato soup recipe from good to exceptional:

• Texture control: For thicker soup, mash more potatoes. For thinner, add extra broth 1/4 cup at a time.
• Dairy addition: Always add cream off-heat to prevent curdling - this is crucial for that smooth loaded potato soup texture.
• Flavor boost: Add 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce with the broth for umami depth.
• Vegetarian option: Skip bacon and use olive oil, adding 1 teaspoon liquid smoke for similar flavor.

Serving Your Loaded Potato Soup

The "loaded" aspect comes from generous toppings. Serve immediately in warm bowls with:

• Extra shredded cheddar cheese that melts into the hot soup
• Crispy bacon crumbles
• Fresh chopped chives
• Sour cream dollop (add just before serving)

This easy loaded potato soup recipe pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple green salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed - the soup thickens when chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this loaded potato soup recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté onions and bacon first, then transfer to slow cooker with potatoes and broth. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Finish with cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes. This slow cooker loaded potato soup method yields even deeper flavor.

How do I prevent my potato soup from becoming grainy?

Grainy texture comes from overcooking potatoes or adding dairy to boiling soup. Simmer potatoes just until tender (test with fork), and always add cream off-heat. Russet potatoes work best for this easy loaded potato soup recipe as they hold shape better than waxy varieties.

What's the best cheese for loaded potato soup?

Sharp cheddar provides the classic flavor, but you can blend cheeses for complexity. Try 1 cup sharp cheddar with 1/2 cup Gruyère for nuttiness. Avoid pre-shredded cheese which contains anti-caking agents that can make soup grainy in your loaded potato soup recipe.

Can I freeze loaded potato soup?

Yes, but omit dairy before freezing. Freeze cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then reheat gently and stir in cream and cheese. This makes the perfect make-ahead easy loaded potato soup for busy weeknights.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This easy loaded potato soup recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just ensure your broth is certified gluten-free, as some brands use wheat-based ingredients. For thickening without flour, try blending more potatoes or adding a slurry of cornstarch and cold water during the final heating stage.