The aroma of Baked Potato Soup wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm, cozy hug. Imagine creamy, velvety goodness topped with crispy bacon bits and fresh chives that make your taste buds dance like no one’s watching.
Every spoonful of this delightful concoction takes me back to chilly evenings spent huddled on the couch, a bowl in hand, watching my favorite movies. Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for lazy Sundays or when you need a pick-me-up after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Potato Soup recipe combines simplicity with rich flavors that will impress everyone
- You can easily adapt it based on your tastes and what you have in your pantry
- Its creamy texture and vibrant toppings make it visually appealing
- Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser
Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes create a creamy base that thickens the soup beautifully; aim for medium-sized ones for even cooking.
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Onion: Use a yellow onion for its sweetness as it caramelizes; dice it finely to blend well into the soup.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic kick; use about three cloves for a robust flavor that complements the potatoes.
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Butter: Unsalted butter enriches the soup; melt it gently to avoid browning while sautéing the onions and garlic.
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Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness; it creates a savory base that enhances all other flavors.
For the Creamy Finish:
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Heavy Cream: This is essential for that rich, silky texture; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking for something lighter.
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Cheddar Cheese: Shred fresh cheddar cheese for optimal melting and flavor; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
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Bacon Bits: Cook crispy bacon bits to add crunch and smoky flavor; these are the cherry on top of your soup masterpiece.
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Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs add color and freshness; chop them finely for garnish and a burst of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Potato Soup
Get Ready to Cook: Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Chop them into uniform cubes so they cook evenly throughout, giving your soup a smooth consistency.
Sauté Those Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently until fragrant, around three minutes—this step creates an incredible aromatic foundation.
Add Potatoes: Toss in those chopped potatoes along with chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat and simmering until potatoes are fork-tender, about fifteen minutes.
Blend It Smooth: Once tender, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches carefully to a blender. Blend until you achieve a dreamy smooth texture—just be cautious with hot liquids!
Creamy Goodness: Stir in heavy cream gradually while heating through. This step transforms your soup from good to absolutely divine! Taste-test here; don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Top It Off: Ladle your luscious soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions or chives. Enjoy how they contrast against the creamy backdrop!
Serve and Savor: Gather loved ones around the table and serve this hearty dish hot! Watch as everyone digs in with satisfied smiles—because who can resist such comfort?
Baked Potato Soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience filled with warmth and laughter. Perfect for any occasion—or simply because life is too short not to indulge!
You Must Know
- This delightful baked potato soup is not just comfort food; it’s a warm hug in a bowl
- Your family will love its creamy texture and rich flavor, making it perfect for chilly nights or any cozy gathering
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking your potatoes until they are tender. While they cool, sauté onions and garlic in butter for that aromatic base. Then, combine everything with broth and cream, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add crispy bacon bits for extra crunch. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top or toss in your favorite herbs to elevate the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove while adding a splash of milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect baked potato soup, ensure your potatoes are fully cooked before blending
- Avoid overcooking the garlic to prevent bitterness
- Finally, adjust the seasoning gradually for a balanced flavor profile
Sometimes I whip up this baked potato soup after a long day, and my kids act like they’ve just discovered gold at the end of a rainbow—it’s that good!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Baked Potato Soup?
To make a delicious Baked Potato Soup, you will need russet potatoes, butter, onions, garlic, chicken broth, milk or cream, and shredded cheese. For garnishing, consider using crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and sour cream. These ingredients come together to create a creamy and hearty soup that’s perfect for cold days. You can also customize the soup with additional toppings like chives or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
How long does Baked Potato Soup take to prepare?
Preparing Baked Potato Soup generally takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and 30 minutes of cooking time. This means you can enjoy this comforting dish in under an hour. Start by cooking the potatoes until they are tender. Then sauté the onions and garlic before adding the broth and other ingredients. Allow everything to simmer together to blend the flavors perfectly.
Can I freeze Baked Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Potato Soup for later enjoyment. To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It is best to leave out any toppings like cheese or bacon until you’re ready to serve it again. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture after thawing.
Is Baked Potato Soup healthy?
Baked Potato Soup can be made healthier by adjusting some ingredients. Use low-fat milk or yogurt instead of heavy cream for fewer calories without sacrificing taste. Incorporating more vegetables like broccoli or spinach boosts nutrition while still keeping that comforting flavor intact. Enjoying this soup in moderation as part of a balanced diet ensures you can savor its richness without feeling guilty.
Conclusion for Baked Potato Soup :
In summary, Baked Potato Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines simple ingredients into a warm bowl of comfort. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with family and friends. With options to customize toppings and adjust ingredients for health considerations, this soup remains a beloved choice in many households. Try making it today for an easy yet delicious meal that everyone will love!
Baked Potato Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked Potato Soup is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This warm bowl of goodness combines the rich flavors of russet potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all topped with fresh chives for a burst of brightness. Easy to make and adaptable, this soup is ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 6 strips of crispy bacon bits
- 2 green onions or chives (chopped)
Instructions
- Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then chop them into uniform cubes.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add chopped potatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
- Blend the mixture using an immersion blender or in batches until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream gradually while heating through; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions or chives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: - For added richness, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. - Customize by adding broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
