Nothing quite compares to the warmth and comfort that a bowl of Baked Potato Soup can bring, especially on those cold, wintry evenings. This creamy, flavorful soup is a delightful combination of tender potatoes, smoky cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, topped with freshly chopped chives. It’s a dish that will instantly make you feel at home, reminiscent of cozy family dinners where the aroma of baking bread filled the air.
Why You Will Love This Soup
Comfort in a Bowl: The combination of potatoes, cheese, and bacon is simply unbeatable.
Simple Ingredients: This soup is made with common ingredients, making it easy to prepare even on busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients and Their Roles
To prepare this amazing Baked Potato Soup, you will need:
4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs): These are the base of the soup, providing a creamy texture when cooked.
¾ tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and balances the fat from the other ingredients.
6 slices thick-cut bacon: Adds a smoky flavor and a crispy texture, also serving as a garnish.
1 large yellow onion, chopped: Contributes a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides depth of flavor with a mild, savory bite.
2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding richness to the soup.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to give the soup its creamy consistency.
3 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Forms the base of the soup, adding savory flavor.
2 ½ cups half-and-half (or milk): Adds creaminess without making the soup too heavy.
¾ cup sour cream: Gives the soup a tangy flavor that balances the richness.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to balance the creaminess.
2 cups grated cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.
Chopped chives (optional): Adds a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Grate the Cheese: Grate the cheddar cheese from a block and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
Preheat the oven to 350° – 400°F.
Cut the bacon into one-inch pieces and cook them in a deep pot over low heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Potatoes
Peel and Cube the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into one-inch cubes. Place the cubed potatoes in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and add ¾ teaspoon of salt.
Cook the Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Sauté the Onion: In the same pot used for the bacon, add the chopped onion and sauté in the bacon drippings over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Create the Roux
Add the Butter: Stir in the butter until melted.
Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
5. Make the Soup Base
Add the Broth: Gradually stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the Half-and-Half: Slowly stir in the half-and-half, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the Potatoes and Sour Cream
Add the Potatoes: Return the cooked potatoes to the pot and stir to combine.
Stir in the Sour Cream: Add the sour cream and stir until fully incorporated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Incorporate the Cheese
Add the Cheddar Cheese: Gently fold in the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheese to become grainy.
8. Serve and Garnish
Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon pieces and chopped chives.
Enjoy: Serve immediately for a comforting, hearty meal.
Variations and Substitutions
This Baked Potato Soup recipe is highly versatile, and you can adjust it to suit your preferences:
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness.
Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half with milk or a low-fat alternative. Use light sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like corn, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Conclusion
This Baked Potato Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the hearty flavors of bacon and potatoes. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to fit your dietary needs or taste preferences, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re warming up on a cold night or looking for comfort food to enjoy with loved ones, this soup is sure to satisfy.