Name: Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 2 tablespoons butter; Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines the creamy richness of potatoes with the savory flavors of cheese, bacon, and green onions. This hearty, satisfying soup is perfect for chilly nights or any time you’re craving something warm and filling. The best part is that it’s easy to make and packed with all the comforting elements of a classic baked potato. Whether served as a main dish or as a side to a larger meal, Baked Potato Soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

The texture of this soup is smooth and velvety, with tender potato chunks adding a delightful contrast. The addition of crispy bacon gives it a savory depth, while shredded cheese and sour cream make it indulgent and creamy. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, evoking warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Best of all, this recipe can be customized to suit your personal preferences, making it a great option for families or gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or preparing it ahead of time for busy weekdays, this Baked Potato Soup will always be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comforting and Hearty

This soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy texture and satisfying flavor that will warm you up from the inside out.

2. Easy to Make

It’s a simple recipe that doesn’t require much prep time or complicated steps. Perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks.

3. Customizable

You can easily adjust the toppings or ingredients, such as adding more bacon, extra cheese, or even vegetables to suit your taste.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

Baked Potato Soup makes a great make-ahead meal, allowing you to prepare it in advance and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

5. Family-Friendly

With its delicious combination of flavors and comforting nature, it’s a recipe that appeals to all ages and is great for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Potatoes
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Heavy cream
Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Bacon
Green onions
Salt
Pepper
Butter
Flour

Variations

Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Add additional toppings like sour cream, chives, or more shredded cheese.
Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or smoked cheese for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Vegan Version: Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut cream, vegan cheese, and dairy-free bacon.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Boil them in a large pot of salted water until they’re fork-tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot used to cook the potatoes, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Soup Base

Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir frequently to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes and Cream

Add the boiled potatoes to the pot, then pour in the heavy cream. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes, leaving some intact for texture.

Step 6: Stir in Sour Cream and Cheese

Once the soup reaches your desired thickness, stir in the sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and melted.

Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve

Top your soup with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and additional cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

For a smoother texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender.
Make sure to use starchy potatoes like Russet for the best texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of cream to make the soup richer or lighter, depending on your preference.
Don’t skip the bacon! It adds an essential salty and crispy texture that enhances the flavor.
If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it for longer or add a little extra flour to the base.

How to Serve

This Baked Potato Soup is perfect on its own for a comforting meal. Serve it with some crusty bread, a simple side salad, or a fresh vegetable dish for a well-rounded meal. If you’re serving it at a gathering, you can offer additional toppings like crispy bacon, extra cheese, sour cream, and chives for everyone to customize their bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up if needed.

Freezing

Baked Potato Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a little milk or broth to achieve the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of potato for this soup?

Yes, although Russet potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if preferred.

2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the potatoes and broth in a slow cooker, then finish the soup on the stove with cream, cheese, and sour cream.

3. Can I use a dairy-free version?

Yes, you can substitute the cream, cheese, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream, vegan cheese, and dairy-free sour cream.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to give the soup some heat.

5. Can I use bacon bits instead of cooking bacon?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon bits, but freshly cooked bacon will add better flavor and texture.

6. Can I add vegetables to the soup?

Yes, you can add vegetables like leeks, carrots, or celery to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.

7. How can I make the soup thicker?

To thicken the soup, you can let it simmer longer, mash more of the potatoes, or add a little more flour to the roux.

8. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, while cheddar is the classic choice, you can use other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

9. Can I make this soup without sour cream?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the sour cream and substitute it with additional heavy cream or use plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

10. How do I know when the potatoes are done boiling?

The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender, meaning a fork easily slides through them without resistance.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this hearty soup is sure to please. With its creamy base, crispy bacon, and delicious toppings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare and easy to customize. Plus, it stores well and can be made ahead, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become your new favorite comfort food!