Baked Potato Soup
Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that transforms the classic baked potato into a rich, creamy soup. It’s hearty, indulgent, and packed with all the flavors that make a baked potato so delicious—creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, all served in a warm, velvety broth.
This soup is a perfect meal for cooler weather or when you’re craving something warm and comforting. It’s easy to make, and with its creamy texture and savory toppings, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
What makes Baked Potato Soup so special is its ability to mimic the flavors of a loaded baked potato in a spoonable form. The smooth, rich base is made from potatoes, butter, and cream, with the addition of onions, garlic, and broth for depth.
Topped with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, this soup gives you the feeling of enjoying a baked potato but in the form of a hearty, satisfying soup. Whether served as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or as a starter before a larger meal, Baked Potato Soup is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for added flavor)
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
For Toppings:
4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
Extra shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream (optional)
How to Make:
Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 10-12 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Make the Soup Base:
Add the cooked potatoes back into the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash the potatoes slightly. You want to leave some chunks for texture, but mash some of the potatoes to create a creamy base. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend the soup fully with an immersion blender or transfer it in batches to a stand blender (just be careful, as it will be hot).
Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup) and sour cream. Mix until the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, and continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is well combined. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, dried thyme (if using), and smoked paprika (if using) to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine and the soup to thicken slightly.
Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes. Sprinkle crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions or chives on top. You can also add a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Chef’s Note:
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for Baked Potato Soup because they break down and become creamy when cooked. However, if you prefer a more firm texture, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which hold their shape better while still providing a creamy consistency.
Creaminess: For the ultimate creamy texture, consider using a combination of milk and heavy cream. The heavy cream makes the soup richer and more indulgent, while the milk helps balance the texture. If you want a lighter version, you can replace some or all of the cream with low-fat milk or use a dairy-free milk alternative (such as almond milk) and a dairy-free sour cream.
Toppings: The toppings for Baked Potato Soup are what truly elevate it. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy sour cream adds layers of flavor and texture that make each bite delicious. If you want to make the soup even heartier, consider adding a few extra toppings, such as sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or even pulled chicken.
Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add other savory elements, such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic, to boost the flavor in place of the bacon.
Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk or broth if needed to loosen the soup. The soup can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months, although the texture may change slightly when reheating. To prevent separation, make sure to stir the soup well when reheating.
Customizations: You can easily customize the soup by adding other ingredients. Try adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, leeks, or spinach for added nutrition and color. You could also spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 19 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 33 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugars: 5 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg
Sodium: 800 mg
Potassium: 800 mg
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Calcium: 20% DV
Iron: 8% DV
Conclusion:
Baked Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves the flavors of a loaded baked potato. With its creamy texture, rich taste, and satisfying toppings, it’s a bowl of warmth and indulgence that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a filling meal on a cold day or a delicious starter for a dinner party, this soup is a fantastic choice. Plus, it’s easy to make and highly customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. So grab a bowl, load it up with your favorite toppings, and enjoy this classic comfort food in soup form.