Name: Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large baking potatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this easy baked potato soup recipe is here to comfort and satisfy. This creamy, savory dish is perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests with minimal effort. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Stick around, as we dive into all the details, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, substitutions, and serving tips, to ensure your potato soup turns out perfect every time!

What is Baked Potato Soup?

Baked potato soup is a thick, hearty soup made from baked potatoes, which are mashed or diced and combined with ingredients like milk, cream, butter, cheese, and bacon. It's a rich, creamy dish that’s often loaded with toppings like green onions, cheese, and sour cream to enhance its flavor and texture. The soup offers the comforting, nostalgic taste of baked potatoes, but with the added benefit of a creamy broth, making it a filling meal on its own or a delicious side dish.

Ingredients List for Easy Baked Potato Soup

To get started on this delicious recipe, here’s a detailed list of ingredients you'll need:

4 large russet potatoes: These are starchy and perfect for creating a creamy texture in soups.
6 slices of bacon: Adds a smoky, salty flavor that complements the richness of the soup.
1 medium onion (diced): Onion provides a mild, savory base for the soup.
3 cloves of garlic (minced): Garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish.
4 cups chicken broth: A savory liquid that enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
2 cups whole milk: Helps to achieve a creamy consistency.
1 cup heavy cream: For extra richness and silkiness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the onions and garlic.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, chopped green onions, more cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.

Ingredients List for Optional Toppings and Garnishes

While the baked potato soup is flavorful on its own, the right toppings can elevate it to the next level. Here are some popular options to top off your soup:

Sour cream: Adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.
Chopped green onions or chives: These provide a fresh, sharp flavor.
Extra bacon bits: A crunchy, salty element to complement the soup’s creaminess.
Shredded cheddar cheese: More cheese means more flavor!
Croutons: For an extra crunch.
Paprika or cayenne pepper: A small dash for a hint of heat.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients. You can make several substitutions and variations to adapt this recipe to your tastes or dietary needs.

Vegetarian version: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, and use plant-based bacon or omit it entirely. You can also add roasted veggies like carrots or leeks to add more depth of flavor.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you make sure the broth you're using is certified gluten-free.
Lighter version: Substitute whole milk with low-fat milk or almond milk for a lighter soup. You can also replace heavy cream with half-and-half or omit the cream entirely for a less rich texture.
Loaded baked potato soup: If you love loaded baked potatoes, add extra toppings like sour cream, green onions, and crumbled bacon to make a "loaded" baked potato soup variation.
Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover ham for a protein-packed meal.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients gathered, it’s time to get cooking! Follow this step-by-step guide to making your easy baked potato soup:

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub your potatoes, poke holes in them with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for about 45-60 minutes until they are soft. Let the potatoes cool, then peel and roughly mash them, leaving some small chunks for texture.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, cook your bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add your diced onions and minced garlic to the bacon grease. Cook over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 4: Add the Broth

Once the onions and garlic are cooked, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Add the Mashed Potatoes

Stir in the mashed baked potatoes. You can blend the soup if you prefer a smoother texture, but leaving small chunks gives the soup that classic baked potato feel.

Step 6: Stir in Milk and Cream

Reduce the heat to low, then add the milk and heavy cream. Stir the soup continuously to avoid curdling. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Season

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a cheesier flavor, feel free to add more cheese.

Step 8: Serve

Once your soup has thickened and is nice and creamy, it's ready to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, extra cheese, and any other desired toppings.

How to Cook Baked Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

To recap the key steps in making this baked potato soup recipe:

Bake the potatoes: This step ensures the potatoes are soft, with a nice texture to mash into the soup.
Cook the bacon: The crispy bacon adds flavor to both the soup and as a garnish.
Sauté the aromatics: Onions and garlic are essential for adding depth to the broth.
Simmer with broth: Chicken broth melds all the ingredients together into a savory base.
Add dairy and cheese: Milk, cream, and cheese give the soup its iconic creamy texture.
Finish and garnish: Top off with your favorite garnishes and serve warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is an easy recipe, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the bacon: Crispy bacon is great, but burnt bacon can ruin the flavor of the soup.
Curdling the milk: Avoid boiling the soup once you add the milk and cream. Keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
Under-seasoning: Potatoes need plenty of seasoning. Don’t forget to taste as you go and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Skipping the toppings: The toppings add texture and flavor, so don't skip them. They truly elevate the dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, even for a humble dish like baked potato soup. Here are some tips to make your soup look just as delicious as it tastes:

Serve in a bread bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and pour the soup inside for an extra treat.
Drizzle of cream: A swirl of cream on top of the soup adds a restaurant-style touch.
Color contrast: Garnish with bright green onions or fresh parsley to add contrast to the creamy beige color of the soup.

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Serve this baked potato soup in deep bowls, ideally while it's still warm from the stovetop. Add a generous portion of toppings, such as extra bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Pair the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Potato Soup

Presentation can turn a simple dish into an impressive feast. Here are a few creative ideas:

Cheese cups: Serve the soup in edible cheese cups for a fun twist.
Mini soup shooters: Serve small portions in shot glasses for a party-friendly appetizer.
Layered soup bowls: Add cheese and bacon between layers of soup in clear glass bowls to show off the toppings throughout.

Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Make it ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat for an easy meal.
Store it: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze it: This soup freezes well. Just omit the dairy before freezing and add it when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less starchy than traditional potato soup.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply cook the bacon and sauté the onions beforehand, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I thicken my soup if it's too thin?
If your soup is too thin, simmer it for longer to reduce the liquid, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Conclusion

This easy baked potato soup recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a rich, creamy, and comforting meal. With simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and plenty of variations to suit any palate, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy dinner, this baked potato soup hits the spot every time. Don’t forget to garnish with all your favorite toppings for the ultimate comfort food experience! Happy cooking!