Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, this Baked Potato Soup is just what you need. It’s the kind of recipe that brings back memories of cozy nights spent with family. The creamy texture, loaded with all those delicious toppings, makes it a favorite for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Every spoonful is like a comforting reminder that home is where the heart (and good food) resides.

This soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual dinner or serving it at a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: This Baked Potato Soup has rich and creamy flavors that everyone loves.
• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this soup on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this hearty bowl of goodness.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup can be made in advance and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make each bowl uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Potato Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish:

For the Soup Base

• 4 large russet potatoes (equal to 2 lbs.)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 large yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup flour
• 3 ½ cups chicken broth

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 2 cups half and half
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For Toppings

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/8 cup chives (finely diced)

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
• Swap the protein: Use turkey bacon or omit meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Make it spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a kick.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into small cubes. This helps them cook evenly and blend smoothly into the soup later. Don’t forget to rinse them well!

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy. Once done, remove it from the pot and let it drain on paper towels. Save some of the drippings in the pot; they add so much flavor to our base!

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add a bit of butter if needed, then toss in your chopped onion. Sauté until translucent—it’s important because this brings out their natural sweetness. After about 5 minutes, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Flour and Broth

Sprinkle flour over your sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well. This will help thicken our soup later on! Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Potatoes and Simmer

Add your diced potatoes along with salt and pepper. Allow everything to simmer together until the potatoes are tender—this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Blend It Up!

Once your potatoes are cooked through, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for that lovely creamy consistency while keeping some chunks intact for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer batches to a regular blender instead.

Step 7: Stir in Creamy Goodness

Add half and half and sour cream to the pot, stirring until well combined. This step is crucial as it adds richness and depth to our Baked Potato Soup.

Step 8: Final Touches

Finally, fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and gooey! Top each serving with crispy bacon bits (if desired) and fresh chives—these little details elevate your soup from good to unforgettable.

Enjoy every spoonful of your comforting Baked Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Potato Soup

Making the perfect Baked Potato Soup is a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some ways to ensure your soup turns out creamy and delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes as they have a high starch content, which helps create that creamy texture you want in your soup.

• Cook bacon perfectly: For extra flavor, cook your bacon until crispy. This not only enhances the taste but also gives you delicious bits to sprinkle on top later!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can make a world of difference in flavor. They add depth and aroma that store-bought options just can’t match.

• Blend for creaminess: If you prefer an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup after it simmers. This will give you that velvety consistency without losing all the chunky goodness.

• Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Each batch can vary based on the broth used, so this ensures you achieve perfect seasoning every time.

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Serving your Baked Potato Soup can be just as fun as making it! With the right garnishes and side dishes, you can elevate this comforting bowl into something truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making your soup visually appealing.
• Crispy potato skins: Bake or fry some potato skins until they’re crispy for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the soup.
• Extra cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top just before serving adds richness and cheesiness that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors of this classic pairing are perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, making every bite even more satisfying.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts bring out natural sweetness and add nutrition to your meal.
• Crackers or breadsticks: Whether crunchy or soft, these options are perfect for scooping up that lovely baked potato goodness!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable bowl of Baked Potato Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy comfort food throughout the week. You can prepare it in advance and store it, so you always have a warm bowl of deliciousness ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent sogginess, keep any toppings separate until serving.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating in the microwave, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Baked Potato Soup that might help you out!

Can I make Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge and is great for meal prep. Just store it properly as mentioned above to enjoy later.

How can I make my Baked Potato Soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency, simply add more flour during cooking or blend part of the soup after it’s cooked to create a creamier texture.

Is Baked Potato Soup suitable for freezing?

Yes! Baked Potato Soup freezes well. Just make sure to portion it out and store it in freezer-safe containers.

What toppings go well with Baked Potato Soup?

Some tasty options include shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or crispy alternatives like turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for added flavor!

How long does Baked Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this cozy Baked Potato Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night at home, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!