Baked Potato Soup is a warm and creamy treat that tastes just like the loaded baked potatoes we all love! With soft potatoes, cheese, and a sprinkle of bacon, this soup is a real hug in a bowl.
It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something cozy. I like to top mine with a little extra cheese and green onions, because who doesn’t want a cheesy bite? 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for this soup because they get nice and creamy when cooked. If you don’t have russets, you can use Yukon Golds, which are also creamy and flavorful.
Bacon: I love the crunch and flavor bacon adds! Turkey bacon or even diced ham can be good alternatives for a lighter option.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its rich texture. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or whole milk instead. Just note that it may not be as creamy.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, try using gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese also works well for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy Without Being Lumpy?
To achieve a smooth and creamy soup, it’s important to follow the right techniques when blending the potatoes. Here’s how to do it right:
- After the potatoes are tender, remove some of them and mash them separately for a creamy consistency. You can also use an immersion blender instead, blending only part of the soup until smooth.
- Make sure to stir constantly when adding the heavy cream to prevent curdling. Heat it gently after adding it in—don’t boil it again.
- For added creaminess, you can even toss in a bit of cream cheese while stirring in the cheese!
By following these tips, your Baked Potato Soup will be beautifully creamy and delicious!
Delicious Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Baked Potato Soup takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to make, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once it’s done, remove it from the pot and let it drain on some paper towels. When it’s cool enough to handle, crumble it into pieces and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, you’ll want to get some flavor going! Discard most of the bacon grease but leave about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Add the butter, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Make the Roux:
Now it’s time to thicken the soup! Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to make a roux (a thick paste). This will help give your soup a lovely creamy texture.
4. Add the Chicken Broth:
Gradually stir in the chicken broth, whisking it in smoothly with the roux. Make sure everything is well combined!
5. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
6. Create a Creamy Texture:
Grab a potato masher or an immersion blender. Mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot to create a lovely creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for a nice bite!
7. Add the Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook on low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Remember to taste and add salt and pepper as needed!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve your comforting soup hot! Top with crumbled bacon, extra shredded cheddar, and sliced green onions or fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your delicious Baked Potato Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are the best for creaminess, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that they might result in a slightly different texture.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use olive oil instead of bacon and butter. You can add more veggies for extra flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can! Allow the soup to cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again, adding a little extra cream if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk, but keep in mind the flavor may vary slightly.