Baked Potato Soup

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This Baked Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining the flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and smooth potatoes in a creamy, rich broth. Each spoonful offers a blend of savory and slightly smoky flavors, with a luxurious texture that warms the soul.

Whether you’re serving it on a chilly winter night or as a cozy starter to a family dinner, this soup is bound to be a hit. Garnish with additional cheese, chives, and bacon for an extra touch of indulgence. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

4 large russet potatoes (approx. 2 lbs.)
¾ teaspoon salt
6 slices thick-cut bacon
1 large yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup flour
3 ½ cups chicken broth
2 cups half and half (or milk)
¾ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/8 cup chives, finely diced

Directions:

Cook the Bacon: Cut the bacon into small squares and cook in a large pot over low heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving 1 tablespoon of the drippings in the pot.
Prepare the Potatoes: While the bacon is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place in a stockpot and cover with 1 inch of water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Cook gently for about 20 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and gently mash the potatoes, then set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the bacon drippings, cook the onions over medium heat until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and butter, cooking for an additional minute.
Make the Soup Base: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 full minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pot. Slowly add the half and half, bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the mashed potatoes, sour cream, and pepper. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it using an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender in batches.
Finish with Cheese and Bacon: Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well combined. Add the bacon (save some for garnish) and chives.
Serve: Garnish each bowl with additional cheese, bacon, and chives. Enjoy this warm and creamy comfort food!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 482 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings

Flavor Profile and Key Ingredients

The Baked Potato Soup has a rich and creamy texture, enhanced by the mix of half and half (or milk) and mashed potatoes. The smoky flavor of crispy bacon perfectly complements the sharpness of cheddar cheese, creating a well-balanced taste. Chives add a subtle freshness, cutting through the creaminess. The combination of these flavors and textures makes this soup both indulgent and satisfying, perfect for cozy nights in.

Cooking Techniques and Tips

Bacon: Cooking the bacon on low heat allows it to render more fat, which is used to sauté the onions and garlic. This step adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup base.
Potato Preparation: Boiling the potatoes separately in salted water ensures they’re well-seasoned and evenly cooked. Mashing the potatoes before adding them to the soup base helps create a smooth, creamy consistency without the soup becoming too gluey.
Cheese Melting: It’s best to use freshly shredded cheese, as pre-shredded varieties often contain additives that can prevent the cheese from melting smoothly. Cracker Barrel Sharp Yellow Cheese is recommended for its flavor and melting properties.
Blending Options: For those who prefer an ultra-creamy soup, blending part or all of the soup with an immersion blender will create a smooth consistency. Alternatively, leaving it chunky provides a more rustic texture that pairs well with the hearty ingredients.

Recipe Variations

Lightened Version: Substitute half and half with milk or even low-fat milk for a lighter version of the soup. Note that this will affect the thickness, but it will still taste delicious.
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the bacon for a smoked paprika seasoning and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. Add some roasted vegetables like carrots or cauliflower for extra texture and flavor.
Loaded Baked Potato Twist: Make it even more like a loaded baked potato by adding toppings like crumbled tortilla chips, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

Bread & Crackers: Pair this soup with a crusty baguette, garlic bread, or buttery crackers for a delightful crunch. The contrast of the crispy bread and creamy soup is truly irresistible.
Salads: Serve with a simple side salad, like a crisp green Caesar salad, or a tangy coleslaw to balance the creaminess of the soup with some refreshing crunch.
Beverages: A light, crisp white wine like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the rich flavors of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a lemon twist to cut through the richness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm over low heat to avoid curdling the dairy. Add a bit of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much after freezing.
Reheating Tips: When reheating, warm it over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup has thickened during storage, simply add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it to your preferred consistency.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup is an excellent choice for meal prepping, as it can easily be made ahead and reheated without losing its flavor or texture. Portion it into containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Garnish just before serving for the best presentation.

Serving Ideas for Special Occasions

The creamy baked potato soup makes a fantastic starter for dinner parties or family gatherings. Serve in small bowls or soup cups as an appetizer, or pair with various toppings in a “soup bar” setup, allowing guests to add their favorite garnishes like extra cheese, bacon bits, or chives.

Nutritional Information

While this soup is indulgent, it also provides a balanced amount of protein, fats, and carbohydrates:

Potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.
Cheddar Cheese offers protein, calcium, and vitamin D, contributing to strong bones and overall health.
Bacon brings a bit of protein and fat for satiety, while also adding flavor to the dish. If you wish to make it a little lighter, consider using turkey bacon and lower-fat dairy options.

The History and Comfort Food Appeal of Baked Potato Soup

Baked Potato Soup is an American classic that brings all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into a hearty, creamy bowl of goodness. It’s thought to have originated as a practical way to use up leftover baked potatoes, with the soup gaining popularity as a comforting dish perfect for cold weather. Over time, this soup evolved into a family-favorite recipe, loved for its versatility and ability to bring warmth and comfort to any meal.

What Makes This Soup Special?

This soup captures the essence of comfort food in each spoonful. The combination of rich textures, savory flavors, and the satisfying blend of ingredients makes it perfect for all ages. Here are some highlights:

Thick, Creamy Broth: The smooth, velvety broth is achieved by combining mashed potatoes, half and half, and shredded cheese. The result is a luscious soup base that has all the comforting textures of a classic baked potato.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients: The bacon, onions, and garlic sautéed in bacon drippings create a flavorful base. This smoky-sweet combination enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Cheese for Creaminess: Sharp cheddar cheese is used not just as a topping, but also melted into the soup, giving it an extra creamy texture and cheesy flavor. This elevates the soup from ordinary to irresistible.

Making the Soup Your Own

Baked Potato Soup is highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it to suit your taste and preferences. Here are some creative ways to make this dish unique:

Add Some Spice: For a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or even diced jalapeños. This will add a bit of heat to the creamy base and make the soup even more flavorful.
Herb Enhancements: While chives are the go-to garnish, consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the soup itself for additional depth. A sprinkle of fresh dill over the top can also bring a burst of freshness.
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, ham, or even roasted turkey to make this soup heartier and to increase its protein content. This will transform the soup from a side dish to a filling main course.

Serving Tips & Presentation

Bread Bowls: For a fun presentation and an extra boost of flavor, serve this soup in a bread bowl. Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or other hearty bread, pour in the soup, and top with cheese, bacon, and chives. The bread will soak up the soup and make every bite more delightful.
Cheese Variety Toppings: While sharp cheddar is the traditional choice, experimenting with different cheeses can add complexity. Try smoked gouda for a smokier flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Blue cheese crumbles make for a bold, tangy addition as well.
Garnish Ideas: Along with bacon, chives, and cheese, consider topping your soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of green onions, or even crushed crispy onions for a unique crunch.

Nutritional Swaps for Healthier Versions

If you’re looking to make the soup healthier without compromising too much on flavor, here are a few easy swaps:

Use Low-Fat Dairy: Replace half and half with low-fat milk or even unsweetened almond milk for a lighter soup. Greek yogurt can be a great replacement for sour cream, adding protein while cutting down on fat.
Skip the Bacon or Use Turkey Bacon: Bacon adds a rich flavor but is high in fat and calories. Consider using turkey bacon for a leaner option or omitting it entirely and adding a touch of liquid smoke for flavor.
Increase the Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, leeks, or even cauliflower. Sauté these vegetables along with the onions for added flavor and texture.

Seasonal Twist Ideas

Fall Harvest Soup: Add diced roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes to the mix for a seasonal twist. These additions give a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the bacon and cheese.
Spring Freshness: Brighten the soup with fresh peas, asparagus tips, or baby spinach stirred in just before serving. The greens add color, nutrients, and a fresh taste to the otherwise rich and creamy soup.
Winter Comfort Bowl: Add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to enhance the warming comfort of the soup. Crumbled sausage can also be used in place of bacon for a heartier, spicier flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Best Results

Airtight Containers: If you’re storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help preserve its flavor and texture.
Stir While Reheating: When reheating, especially if the soup was frozen, it’s important to stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency and avoid any separation of dairy.
Add Broth if Needed: Upon reheating, if the soup seems too thick, adding a small amount of broth, milk, or even water can help thin it out to the desired consistency.

Great for Gatherings and Parties

Baked Potato Soup is perfect for gatherings because it can be made in large quantities and kept warm in a slow cooker. Set up a soup bar where guests can serve themselves and add their favorite toppings. This interactive approach not only makes serving easy but also adds a personalized touch to your meal.

Balancing the Meal with Side Dishes

While the soup itself is hearty, pairing it with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal:

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: The classic pairing of soup and sandwiches works perfectly here. A gooey grilled cheese made with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella or a touch of pesto can enhance the flavors.
Salty Pretzels or Soft Rolls: A chewy pretzel or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. The salty crust adds a delicious contrast to the creamy soup.
Roasted Veggie Skewers: For a lighter side, consider roasted vegetable skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. The roasted flavors add depth and contrast to the smooth soup.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy textures, savory flavors, and customizable toppings. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or gatherings, offering flexibility to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, this soup is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and sides for a warm, comforting meal that everyone will love!