Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe
If you're looking to bring the warmth and comfort of a loaded baked potato right to your dinner table, an easy baked potato soup might just be your answer. You start by crafting the perfect base with baked russet potatoes, and then enhance the savory profile with crispy bacon and sautéed onions. A mix of chicken broth and heavy cream adds a velvety touch, while shredded cheddar cheese rounds off the flavor. But how do you guarantee all these elements come together seamlessly to create a soup that's as satisfying as the classic dish itself? Therein lies the secret.
Recipe
Baked potato soup is a comforting and creamy dish that captures the essence of a loaded baked potato in a warm, savory bowl. It's perfect for chilly days and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and cozy weekend meals. The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and perfectly baked russet potatoes creates a rich and satisfying flavor. This versatile soup can be customized with your favorite toppings or adjusted to suit your taste preferences.
To start, gather your ingredients and prepare the base by baking the potatoes until tender. The key to a great baked potato soup is using bacon drippings to sauté the onions and garlic, which adds depth to the broth. The addition of heavy cream and cheddar cheese gives the soup its signature creaminess, while the mashed potatoes help to thicken it naturally. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with crispy bacon and chopped green onions before serving hot.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
Begin by baking the russet potatoes until they're tender, then let them cool slightly. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy and set it aside. Use the bacon drippings in the pot to sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they're fragrant.
Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and the mashed potato flesh. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions if desired.
For best results, use starchy potatoes like russets, as they naturally thicken the soup and lend a creamy texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, consider blending a portion of it before adding the cheese.
Be mindful of the salt content, especially if using store-bought chicken broth, since bacon and cheese can be quite salty. Feel free to personalize your soup with additional toppings like sour cream, extra cheese, or even a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. Enjoy this warm and hearty dish!
Cooking Steps
First, you'll want to bake your russet potatoes until they're tender enough to scoop out with ease, just like stealing candy from a baby potato!
While those spuds are getting cozy in the oven, crisp up some bacon in a large pot, and don't forget to do a little happy dance for extra flavor.
Once the bacon's done, use the drippings to sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then simmer it all with chicken broth and heavy cream, before mashing those baked potatoes, adding the cheese, and stirring it all together into a creamy, dreamy concoction.
Step 1. Bake Russet Potatoes Until Tender
To get started on your baked potato soup, begin by preparing the russet potatoes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), then scrub the potatoes clean under running water.
Dry them thoroughly with a towel—nobody likes soggy potatoes!
Using a fork, poke a few holes in each potato. This helps them release steam while baking, preventing any explosive surprises in your oven.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for easy cleanup.
Bake them for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they're tender when pierced with a fork.
While you wait, you can entertain yourself with a potato-themed dance party (just kidding… or not).
Once done, let them cool before handling. Enjoy!
Step 2. Cook Bacon Until Crispy
With your potatoes baking to perfection, it's time to focus on the bacon.
Grab your favorite skillet, and lay down the strips of bacon in a single layer. Turn the heat to medium, and let the sizzling symphony begin!
As the bacon cooks, you'll notice the tempting aroma wafting through your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece. Use tongs to flip the bacon occasionally, ensuring it cooks evenly.
You're aiming for that golden-brown, crispy texture that adds a delightful crunch to your soup.
Once the bacon reaches crispy nirvana, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
Step 3. Sauté Onion and Garlic
After setting aside the crispy bacon, it's time to infuse the pot with flavor by sautéing the onion and garlic. Use the leftover bacon drippings for this step, adding a subtle, smoky touch.
Toss in the diced onion first, letting it sizzle and soften until it's translucent and fragrant—about five minutes. Next, introduce the minced garlic, stirring it in gently.
Be careful, though! Garlic burns faster than a marshmallow at a campfire, so keep an eye on it. Cook for just about a minute, until the kitchen smells like a delicious garlic dream.
This aromatic base sets the stage for the rest of your soup, enhancing all those comforting flavors you love. You're on the path to soup perfection!
Step 4. Simmer Broth With Heavy Cream
The fragrant onion and garlic mixture is ready, and it's time to add richness and depth to your soup.
Pour in the chicken broth, careful not to splash it everywhere like a mini kitchen tsunami. Once the broth is in, bring it to a simmer—it's like giving your soup a gentle hot tub soak.
Now, add that glorious cup of heavy cream. Stir it in slowly, watching as your soup transforms into a creamy delight. The cream adds a smooth texture and a hint of indulgence, making it feel extra special.
Keep an eye on the pot, and don't let it boil over—unless you fancy cleaning up a milky mess. Let it simmer gently, blending flavors perfectly.
Step 5. Mash Potatoes and Add Cheese
Once your potatoes are cool enough to handle, scoop out their fluffy insides and give them a light mash, leaving some texture for the soup. Don't aim for potato perfection—lumps add character!
Toss the mashed potatoes into your simmering pot, stirring gently to blend them with the creamy broth. Now, it's time for the star of the show: cheese! Add the shredded cheddar cheese, and watch it melt into a velvety dream.
Stir continuously to avoid any cheese clumps, ensuring a smooth, cheesy finish. This combination of mashed potatoes and melted cheese creates a rich, comforting base that's irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Baked potato soup embodies comfort in every spoonful, making it a go-to recipe for anyone seeking warmth and flavor on a cold day.
This dish isn't just about filling your stomach; it's about filling your soul.
You've got the creamy texture, the savory zing from bacon, and the cheesy goodness that can make even the gloomiest day feel brighter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian by Omitting Bacon and Using Vegetable Broth?
Absolutely, you can make it vegetarian. Just skip the bacon and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth. Add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Customize with your favorite veggies or toppings to enhance flavor. Enjoy!
How Can I Store and Reheat Leftover Baked Potato Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it's too thick, add a splash of broth or milk. Enjoy!
What Are Some Alternative Toppings for Baked Potato Soup?
You've got plenty of options for alternative toppings. Try adding crispy fried onions, crumbled blue cheese, roasted garlic, or even avocado slices. Don't forget to experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra flavor punch.
Is It Possible to Freeze Baked Potato Soup for Later Use?
You can definitely freeze baked potato soup for later. Just let it cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
How Do I Adjust the Recipe for a Larger or Smaller Serving Size?
To adjust the recipe for different serving sizes, simply scale the ingredients proportionally. If you're doubling the recipe, double each ingredient. For half, use half the amount. Keep the cooking times similar for consistency.
