Quick and Comforting: Easy Fast Soup Recipes for Every Occasion

Ah, the classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup — my absolute favorite for those chilly evenings when you want something creamy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting! There’s just something magical about the combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese that gives me all the cozy vibes.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the countless snowy days my mom would whip this up. She’d serve it alongside warm, crusty bread, and we’d gather around the kitchen table, surrounded by love, laughter, and the delicious aroma of this soup simmering away.

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Now, don’t get me wrong — I’ve experimented with plenty of variations of potato soup over the years. But nothing, and I mean nothing, beats this classic version. It’s like a big, warm hug in a bowl, bringing together nostalgia and deliciousness in every bite. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the goodness that is Loaded Potato Soup!

What’s in Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup?

Let’s break down each ingredient in this comforting dish. Trust me, each one plays a vital role in creating that creamy, loaded goodness!

• Russet Potatoes: These starchy spuds are the foundation of this soup. Medium-sized russets cook down beautifully, creating that fluffy, creamy texture we all crave.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The broth adds depth and flavor. Whether you choose chicken or vegetable broth, both work wonderfully. (I’m partial to low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.)
• Heavy Cream and Milk: These creamy liquids make the soup rich and velvety. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can swap half the cream for extra milk, but trust me — the cream takes it to the next level!
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This brings every bite to life! The sharpness complements the potatoes beautifully. Freshly grated cheese melts better than the pre-shredded kind.
• Bacon: Crumbled, crispy bacon scattered throughout gives you that salty crunch we all adore. (Pro tip: Bake your bacon for extra crispiness.)
• Green Onions: Sliced for flavor and garnish, these add a mild oniony taste and a pop of color.
• Butter: The base of the roux, butter adds that rich flavor we can’t resist.
• All-Purpose Flour: This thickens the soup to creamy perfection.
• Garlic: Just a couple of minced cloves to bring warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: These staples balance and enhance all the flavors in the soup.

Is Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup Good for You?

Ah, the million-dollar question! While this Loaded Potato Soup leans toward indulgence, it still has some nutritional perks:

• Potatoes: They’re packed with vitamins like C and potassium. Plus, they’re super filling!
• Bacon: In moderation, bacon provides protein and a burst of flavor. The key is portion control.
• Green Onions: These little green wonders are low in calories and high in vitamins A, C, and K.

Yes, it’s rich and creamy due to the cheese and cream, but you can always tweak the recipe to make it a little lighter while keeping that comforting essence intact.

Ingredients List

This delicious Loaded Potato Soup serves about 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week!

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (plus more for garnish)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Classic Old Fashioned Loaded Potato Soup

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your soup masterpiece:

1. Melt the butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it smells heavenly, about 1 minute.
2. Make the roux: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
3. Add the broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle boil — this is where the magic begins!
4. Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let them cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the cream and milk: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the heavy cream and milk. Let the soup heat through, but avoid boiling.
6. Add the goodness: Mix in the crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra bacon bits, green onions, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for that extra flair.

Comforting Tips and Serving Suggestions

Want to take this soup to the next level? Here are some fun ideas:

• Dollop of Sour Cream: Add a swirl of sour cream on top for a zesty, creamy touch.
• Crusty Bread Companion: Pair this soup with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every last drop. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.
• Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or cauliflower for a healthier twist and a pop of color.

This soup is a fantastic way to warm up your belly, your home, and your heart. I can already taste the deliciousness! I can’t wait for you to try it. Let me know how it turns out—this is one of those Easy Fast Soup Recipes that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Happy cooking and enjoy every cozy bite!