Incredible Loaded Potato Soup: 30 Min Magic

September 20, 2025

Incredible loaded potato soup has a way of making any day feel special, and I’ve loved this recipe for years. It’s the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug with every spoonful. I remember the first time I made it, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic filled my kitchen, promising something truly delicious. That creamy, hearty bowl, brimming with bacon and cheese, quickly became my go-to for chilly evenings. If you’re looking for a fantastic loaded potato soup recipe that will impress, this incredible loaded baked potato soup is it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

This incredible loaded potato soup is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly delicious, delivering that perfect, hearty flavor you crave.

The taste is absolutely divine – a rich, creamy loaded potato soup experience.
It’s surprisingly quick to make, with a prep time of just 15 minutes.
Packed with wholesome ingredients, it offers a satisfying and relatively healthy meal.
It’s incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
This soup is a guaranteed hit with the whole family, making dinner a breeze.
You’ll enjoy a wonderfully creamy loaded potato soup that feels like a treat.
It’s a versatile dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck contribution.

Ingredients for Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this irresistible loaded potato soup with bacon and cheese. Here’s what you’ll need for this amazing loaded potato soup recipe:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced – russets are key for that signature creamy texture.
1 medium onion, finely chopped – this forms the aromatic base of our soup.
3 cloves garlic, minced – for that essential savory depth.
4 cups chicken broth – use a good quality broth for the best flavor.
1 cup heavy cream – this is what makes our soup so wonderfully rich and creamy loaded potato soup.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – essential for that classic loaded potato soup with cheese flavor!
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled – because what’s a loaded potato soup without crispy bacon?
2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing our aromatics.
2 teaspoons salt – adjust to your taste.
1 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground is always best.
½ teaspoon paprika – adds a subtle color and smoky hint.
¼ cup sour cream, for serving – a dollop of cool creaminess.
¼ cup chopped green onions, for serving – for a fresh, bright finish.

How to Make Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

Get ready to create the most amazing bowl of comfort! This easy loaded potato soup recipe is straightforward and yields fantastic results. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make this homemade loaded potato soup.

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash and peel the 4 large russet potatoes, then dice them into small, uniform cubes. Chop the 1 medium onion and mince the 3 cloves garlic.
Step 2: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Stir in the diced potatoes, followed by the 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Cook for another minute, stirring everything together to coat the potatoes and allow the spices to bloom.
Step 4: Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth, making sure it completely covers the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
Step 6: Now, it’s time to get that signature creamy texture! Use an immersion blender to carefully puree the soup directly in the pot until it’s smooth and velvety. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only about half of it, or mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot with a sturdy spoon or potato masher. This step is crucial for an incredibly smooth soup.
Step 7: Stir in the 1 cup heavy cream and the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and fully incorporated into the soup, creating a rich, luscious consistency.
Step 8: Gently fold in the 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled, reserving a little for garnish if you like. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. This is also where you can make it your own; this is part of what makes this loaded potato soup so good and adaptable.
Step 9: Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls. Garnish generously with a dollop of ¼ cup sour cream, a sprinkle of the ¼ cup chopped green onions, and any remaining crumbled bacon. Enjoy your delicious, homemade creation!

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Pro Tips for the Best Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

Elevate your soup game with these insider tips for the ultimate bowl of comfort. These little tricks ensure your loaded potato soup is always a hit!

For the creamiest texture, use russet potatoes and don’t over-blend if you like some chunks.
Prep your toppings ahead of time so serving is a breeze.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer hot soup in batches to a regular blender and puree.
Don’t skip the cheese melt; stirring it in at the end makes it extra decadent.

What’s the secret to perfect Incredible Loaded Potato Soup?

The secret to what makes loaded potato soup incredible lies in the balance of creamy texture and those classic loaded toppings. Using russet potatoes and a good quality broth are key for that rich, satisfying flavor everyone loves. For more tips on achieving the perfect consistency, you might find resources on potato soup techniques helpful.

Can I make Incredible Loaded Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-5) up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add the cream, cheese, and bacon just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. This is a great way to save time, similar to how you might prepare turkey meatloaf recipe ahead of time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Incredible Loaded Potato Soup?

Avoid overcooking the potatoes, which can make them watery. Also, be careful not to scorch the garlic when sautéing. Finally, don’t add all the cheese at once if you’re worried about it clumping; stir it in gradually over low heat. Proper ingredient preparation is key to many great recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

This hearty soup is so versatile! It’s perfect as a stand-alone meal for a cozy night in, making it a fantastic option for loaded potato soup for dinner. You can also serve it as a comforting loaded potato soup side dish alongside a crisp green salad or a simple sandwich. For a truly decadent experience, pair it with crusty bread for dipping – it’s pure bliss! Imagine a chilly evening, a warm bowl of this soup, and a slice of garlic bread; it’s the epitome of comfort food. For other comforting meal ideas, check out our beef and bowtie pasta with alfredo sauce.

Nutrition Facts for Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

This delicious creamy loaded potato soup is a satisfying meal. Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that exact values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Calories: 380 kcal
Fat: 18g
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: Needs to be calculated based on ingredients
Fiber: Needs to be calculated based on ingredients
Sugar: Needs to be calculated based on ingredients
Sodium: Needs to be calculated based on ingredients

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources on healthy eating guidelines.

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How to Store and Reheat Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

Once you’ve made this amazing loaded potato soup, you’ll want to savor it! For the best flavor and texture, let the soup cool completely before storing. Transfer it into airtight containers. In the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep and one of the many loaded potato soup variations you can enjoy later. If you’re interested in other meal prep ideas, consider our keto cottage cheese bread recipe.

Reheating is simple! Gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating. Enjoying this hearty soup even days later is part of its magic!

Frequently Asked Questions About Incredible Loaded Potato Soup

Is this loaded potato soup comfort food?

Absolutely! This incredible loaded potato soup is the definition of comfort food. Its creamy texture, savory flavors, and classic toppings like bacon and cheese create a warm, satisfying experience that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little extra coziness. For other comforting dishes, explore our caramel brownie cheesecake recipe.

Can I make this a hearty loaded potato soup without the cream?

Yes, you can! While the cream adds richness, you can achieve a wonderfully hearty loaded potato soup by using evaporated milk or even a plant-based milk like oat or cashew milk. You might also consider blending in a bit of cooked cauliflower for extra thickness and creaminess without the dairy. For a lighter option, you might also consider crispy roasted cauliflower.

What kind of potatoes are best for loaded potato soup?

Russet potatoes are my top choice for this soup. Their high starch content makes them break down beautifully when cooked and blended, resulting in that signature thick and creamy texture that makes this loaded potato soup comfort food so beloved. Yukon Golds are a good alternative if you can’t find russets.

How can I make this loaded potato soup recipe spicier?

To add a kick, you can stir in some diced jalapeños along with the onions and garlic, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when you add the other spices. A dash of hot sauce stirred in at the end also works wonders for a bit of heat! For other spicy options, check out our Korean BBQ meatballs.

Variations of Incredible Loaded Potato Soup You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, feel free to get creative with this versatile dish! There are so many delicious loaded potato soup variations to explore.

Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, swap the heavy cream and cheese for full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast. You can still get that creamy texture and cheesy flavor!
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for an extra layer of smoky depth that complements the bacon perfectly.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use plant-based bacon bits or extra cheese for a vegetarian delight.
Topping Fun: Beyond the classic sour cream and chives, try adding crispy fried onions, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheese, or even dollops of guacamole for a unique twist. A dollop of loaded potato soup with sour cream is classic, but don’t forget the fresh zing from loaded potato soup with chives!