Baked Potato Soup Recipe

When the craving for something creamy, comforting, and delicious strikes, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Baked Potato Soup. This recipe brings together the hearty goodness of russet potatoes, the smoky flavor of bacon, and the richness of cheddar cheese to create a soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this baked potato soup is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients Overview

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients that make this baked potato soup truly irresistible.

Key Ingredients for a Perfect Baked Potato Soup

• Russet Potatoes (2 lbs., about 4 large potatoes): Known for their starchy texture, russet potatoes create a creamy base for the soup when mashed.
• Thick Cut Bacon (6 slices): Adds a savory, smoky flavor that complements the potatoes.
• Yellow Onion (1 large): Provides a sweet and slightly sharp flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds depth and a hint of spice.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
• Flour (1/4 cup): Thickens the soup to a perfect consistency.
• Chicken Broth (3 ½ cups): Forms the base of the soup, adding a savory layer.
• Half and Half (2 cups): Provides creaminess without the heaviness of full cream.
• Sour Cream (¾ cup): Adds tanginess and a creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts into the soup for a velvety finish.
• Chives (1/8 cup, finely diced): Fresh, mildly onion-like, and perfect for garnishing.

Preparation Steps

How to Prepare the Ingredients in Advance

To ensure your cooking process is seamless, take some time to prep the ingredients in advance.

1. Prepping the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly and speeds up the boiling process.
2. Tips for Perfectly Cooked Bacon: Cut the bacon slices into 1-inch pieces using kitchen shears. Cook them slowly over low heat to render the fat and achieve crispy bacon pieces.
3. Preparing the Cheese, Sour Cream, and Other Ingredients: Shred the cheddar cheese from a block, and measure out the sour cream and half and half. Let these ingredients sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using, which helps them incorporate smoothly into the soup.

Cooking Instructions

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Let’s walk through the process of making this delicious baked potato soup.

1. Cooking the Bacon and Prepping the Potatoes:
   In a large pot, cook the bacon pieces over low heat. Stir occasionally until they become crisp and golden brown. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot. While the bacon is cooking, bring a stockpot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Drain and gently mash the potatoes, then set aside.
2. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
   Add the diced yellow onion to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Making the Soup Base with Chicken Broth and Half and Half:
   Stir in the butter until melted, then add the flour. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to add flavor. Slowly pour in the half and half, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Adding Potatoes, Sour Cream, and Seasonings:
   Stir the mashed potatoes into the soup base, followed by the sour cream and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Blending for the Perfect Consistency:
   For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until the soup reaches your desired consistency, either fully smooth or leaving some chunks for texture.
6. Incorporating Cheese for a Smooth Finish:
   Gradually sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the soup, stirring constantly. Ensure the soup base isn’t too hot to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is creamy and thick.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup for Maximum Flavor

1. Garnishing Tips: Chives, Bacon, and More:
   Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon pieces, a sprinkle of finely diced chives, and a little extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.
2. Best Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Potato Soup:
   Pair this rich and creamy soup with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a warm batch of homemade biscuits for a complete meal.

Tips and Tricks

Expert Tips for the Perfect Baked Potato Soup

1. How to Avoid Common Mistakes:
   • Avoid Overheating: Do not let the soup base get too hot when adding cheese. If the soup is too hot, the cheese may separate and become grainy.
   • Blend in Batches: If you choose to blend the soup, do it in small batches to avoid hot splashes or over-blending.
2. Storage and Reheating Tips:
   Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

Delicious Variations of Baked Potato Soup You Can Try

1. Vegetarian Version:
   Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
2. Dairy-Free Option:
   Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of half and half, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative to make this soup suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Baked Potato Soup

• Large Pot: For cooking bacon and simmering the soup.
• Stockpot: For boiling potatoes.
• Kitchen Shears: For cutting bacon.
• Silicone Spatula: For stirring and scraping the pot.
• Immersion Blender or Regular Blender: For blending the soup to a smooth consistency.

FAQ Section

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Potato Soup

1. Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
   Yes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture, but russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy quality, which helps thicken the soup.
2. How Can I Make the Soup Thicker or Thinner?
   To make the soup thicker, add more mashed potatoes or a bit of cornstarch slurry. To thin it out, add more chicken broth or half and half.
3. What Are the Best Substitutes for Sour Cream?
   Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you want to reduce fat while maintaining the tangy flavor.

Conclusion

Why wait to enjoy a bowl of this comforting Baked Potato Soup? With its rich, creamy texture and delicious flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and experience the ultimate comfort food today! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes.

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