This Baked Potato Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. With its rich, creamy broth and the comforting flavors of bacon, cheese, and chives, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. It’s incredibly simple to prepare and offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and sour cream creates a savory taste that will keep you coming back for more.
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
- Comforting Texture: The thick and creamy broth makes every spoonful feel indulgent.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a chilly night or a festive gathering, this soup is versatile enough to suit any event.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust ingredients to match your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, gather these essential tools before you start making your Baked Potato Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Whisk
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot is crucial for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend well.
- Chef’s knife: This tool helps chop vegetables quickly and safely, ensuring prep time is minimal.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 large russet potatoes (equal to 2 lbs.)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 6 slices thick cut bacon
- 1 large yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Broth
- ¼ cup flour
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half and half
For the Finish
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/8 cup chives (finely diced)
How to Make Baked Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by washing and peeling the russet potatoes. Cut them into small cubes to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pot and let it drain on paper towels. Reserve some of the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add diced onions to the same pot with bacon grease. Sauté until they are soft and translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Base
Stir in butter until melted. Add flour gradually while whisking continuously to create a roux. Cook for about 1 minute before slowly adding chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
Step 5: Incorporate Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes along with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Add Creaminess
Once potatoes are cooked through, stir in half-and-half and sour cream. Mix well until heated through but do not boil.
Step 7: Final Touches
Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually while stirring until melted. Top with crispy bacon pieces and finely diced chives before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Potato Soup!
How to Serve Baked Potato Soup
Baked Potato Soup is a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread complement the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
Topped with Extras
- Extra Cheese: Sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar on top for an extra cheesy delight.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Adding more bacon enhances the smoky flavor and texture.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives adds a refreshing touch and vibrant color.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley can brighten up the presentation and add freshness.
Served in a Bread Bowl
- Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic feel.
How to Perfect Baked Potato Soup
To achieve the best Baked Potato Soup, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh potatoes and quality bacon for optimal flavor.
- Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-smooth texture, blend part of the soup before serving.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Add Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Potato Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Baked Potato Soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every bit of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a tasty contrast and boost nutrition.
- Deviled Eggs: A classic appetizer that offers a creamy texture, complementing the soup nicely.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an elegant side that pairs well with the flavors of potato soup.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory soup, enhancing your meal experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Baked Potato Soup is easy, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish.
- Skipping the bacon: Bacon adds flavor and texture. Cook it until crispy for the best results.
- Not seasoning properly: Salt enhances flavor. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Using cold broth: Always use warm chicken broth. This helps maintain consistent cooking temperatures and improves the soup’s texture.
- Overcooking potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy. Cook them until tender but firm, so they hold their shape in the soup.
- Neglecting garnishes: Toppings like chives and cheese add freshness and flavor. Don’t skip this step for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Baked Potato Soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Baked Potato Soup
- If freezing, use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Baked Potato Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Potato Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about preparing Baked Potato Soup.
What is Baked Potato Soup?
Baked Potato Soup is a creamy soup made from russet potatoes, bacon, cheese, and seasonings, creating a comforting dish perfect for chilly days.
Can I customize my Baked Potato Soup?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like broccoli or swap cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
How long does it take to make Baked Potato Soup?
The total time is around 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s quick and easy for a delicious meal!
Is Baked Potato Soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour when thickening the soup.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Potato Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Try making it today to enjoy its creamy richness that warms the soul!
Baked Potato Soup
Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy goodness with the savory flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. This delicious soup is perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends and family. Easy to prepare in under an hour, it features a rich, thick broth that envelops tender potatoes, making it a satisfying meal. Customize your bowl with extra toppings or serve it alongside crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Dive into this warm, indulgent dish that promises to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 large yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 cups half and half
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Wash and peel the potatoes; cut into small cubes.
- Cook bacon in a large pot until crispy; drain and reserve grease.
- Sauté diced onions in the bacon grease until soft, then add minced garlic.
- Stir in butter and gradually add flour to create a roux; cook briefly.
- Slowly add chicken broth while stirring; incorporate cubed potatoes and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in half-and-half and sour cream; heat through without boiling.
- Mix in cheddar cheese until melted; garnish with bacon bits and chives before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
