Baked Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then this Baked Potato Soup is just what you need! There’s something about a creamy soup filled with tender potatoes and all the delicious toppings that makes it feel like home. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings comfort and smiles to the table. You’ll find it’s not just easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying.

This soup has become a favorite in my household because it combines simple ingredients into something truly special. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch, this Baked Potato Soup never disappoints!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this comforting soup ready in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; you can easily store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cheese, chives, and smooth potatoes creates a flavor explosion that warms your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple these ingredients are! With just a few wholesome items, you’ll be on your way to enjoying this delightful Baked Potato Soup.

For the Soup Base

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

For the Toppings

• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/8 cup chives (finely diced)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: A pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños can add a nice kick!
• Swap the cheese: Try using pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute non-dairy milk and vegan cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

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 faster and creates that creamy texture we love in our soup. Place them in a pot of salted water, bringing everything to a boil. Once tender, drain them and set aside while we create our base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor that makes our soup irresistible.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring well to form a roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes; this helps thicken our soup while adding depth to its flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth followed by half and half, stirring continuously until well combined. This will ensure there are no lumps from the roux—smooth soup is key! Then add back your cooked potatoes along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Add Toppings

Once everything is heated through, turn off the heat and stir in sour cream until melted into the soup. Serve hot, topping each bowl with cheddar cheese and fresh chives. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your homemade Baked Potato Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Potato Soup

Making Baked Potato Soup is a breeze, but these pro tips will ensure you achieve that ultimate creamy texture and flavor.

• Use starchy potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they break down beautifully when cooked, giving your soup a thick and creamy consistency.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Crispy bacon not only adds a delightful crunch to the soup but also enhances the overall flavor. This will create a wonderful contrast with the creaminess of the broth.
• Don’t rush the onion and garlic: Sautéing onions and garlic until they’re golden brown deepens their flavor, providing a rich base for your soup.
• Blend for a smoother texture: If you prefer an ultra-creamy soup, consider blending part or all of the soup before adding the garnishes. This step creates a velvety texture that’s hard to resist!
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste your soup before serving and feel free to add more salt or pepper. Each batch can vary, so adjusting seasoning ensures it’s just right!

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Serving Baked Potato Soup can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate your Baked Potato Soup from delicious to extraordinary!

• Chopped chives: Fresh chives bring a mild onion flavor and vibrant color that brightens up your bowl.
• Extra shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top melts beautifully and enhances that cheesy goodness.
• Crispy bacon bits: For those who love bacon, adding extra crispy bits on top gives an irresistible crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Potato Soup with these delightful side dishes for a complete meal experience.

• Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread complements the creamy soup perfectly. Its crispy texture is great for dipping!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides nutrients, making your meal more wholesome.
• Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins are a classic pairing with soups, adding warmth and comfort to your dining experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a luscious bowl of Baked Potato Soup sure to be loved by everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Baked Potato Soup that might enhance your cooking experience.

Can I make Baked Potato Soup without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon entirely or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegetarian option.

What type of potatoes are best for Baked Potato Soup?

Russet potatoes work wonderfully for this Baked Potato Soup due to their creamy texture when cooked. They really enhance the overall flavor!

How can I thicken my Baked Potato Soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or add additional flour mixed with water to achieve your desired thickness.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of half-and-half in this recipe?

Yes! For a lighter version of your Baked Potato Soup, feel free to use low-fat milk or a non-dairy milk alternative. Just keep in mind it may alter the creaminess slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this comforting Baked Potato Soup! It’s not just a meal, but a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me – I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!