“Baked Potato Soup Recipe: Creamy & Hearty Comfort”

Baked potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of baked potatoes with creamy soup goodness. Perfect for chilly evenings, this easy-to-make recipe features crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and a blend of savory seasonings. This dish has all the familiar flavors of a loaded baked potato in a warm, velvety soup. It’s cozy, hearty, and sure to satisfy your hunger.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Potato Soup

This baked potato soup recipe is not just quick and easy, but it also brings together the best aspects of a classic baked potato. With crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and sour cream, every spoonful is packed with creamy, indulgent flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or when you need a comforting meal. The simplicity of the ingredients and preparation makes it a favorite in any home kitchen. Plus, you don’t even need to bake the potatoes, saving you time without sacrificing flavor!

Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious baked potato soup:

• Bacon: Adds crispy texture and smoky flavor, making the soup rich and savory.
• Onion: Sweet onion, like Vidalia, provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Russet Potatoes: The starchy, fluffy texture of Russets makes them perfect for this soup, helping thicken it naturally.
• Flour: Acts as a thickening agent to make the soup creamy without using heavy cream.
• Whole Milk: Creates a creamy base without being too heavy.
• Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and depth to the soup, making it savory and rich.
• Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic depth and enhances the other ingredients.
• Cheddar Cheese: Grated sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the soup, adding flavor and creaminess.
• Sour Cream: Offers a tangy creaminess that mimics the topping on a loaded baked potato.
• Scallions: Adds a fresh, green bite to balance the richness of the soup.
• Salt & Pepper: Season to taste for that perfect balance of flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for variations or substitutions, here are some great options:

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use olive oil to sauté the onion and garlic.
• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk (such as oat milk) and dairy-free cheese for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Add Protein: Consider adding diced ham or shredded chicken to make the soup heartier and more filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Potato Soup

Follow these easy steps to make your perfect bowl of baked potato soup:

1. Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small pieces and fry them in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy (about 10 minutes). Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving some bacon grease in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the bacon grease and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Make a Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, allowing it to absorb the grease and form a thick paste.
4. Add Milk: Slowly whisk in the whole milk until the flour is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Add Broth, Potatoes, and Garlic: Pour in the chicken broth, diced potatoes, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Simmer: Lower the heat to a simmer and cook the soup for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
7. Mash the Potatoes: If you prefer a thicker texture, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. Otherwise, leave the potatoes whole for a chunkier texture.
8. Finish the Soup: Stir in the sour cream, half of the grated cheddar, and bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar, bacon, and scallions.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Baked Potato Soup

• Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! They help bring out all the flavors, especially in a creamy soup like this.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup gets too thick after cooling, add more chicken broth or milk when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Grating your own cheddar cheese will ensure it melts smoothly and adds a creamier texture to the soup.
• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook; you want them soft but not mushy.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This baked potato soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can make it even more special with some tasty sides:

• Side Dish Ideas: Serve with crusty sourdough bread or a fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• Topping Ideas: For extra flavor, try topping your soup with crumbled blue cheese, crispy fried onions, or a dollop of ranch dressing.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Make Ahead & Storage

• Make-Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
• Freezing: While the soup is okay to freeze, it may become a bit grainy when reheated. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat on low heat, stirring often.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Why This Recipe Works

This baked potato soup recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and savory broth creates a rich, satisfying soup that’s perfect for chilly nights. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress at your next gathering, this recipe has it all. Plus, it’s easy to make, with ingredients you probably already have on hand.

Enjoy this bowl of comforting goodness, and don’t forget to share with loved ones!

Conclusion

This easy baked potato soup is the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato, but in a warm, creamy soup form. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. With a few simple ingredients, this hearty soup comes together quickly, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. Don’t forget to garnish with your favorite toppings for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this satisfying bowl of comfort that feels like a hug in a mug!

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