The richness of this Creamy Baked Potato Soup comes from a perfect balance of soft, buttery potatoes blended with sharp cheddar cheese and a touch of smoky bacon. This soup is pure comfort, ideal for cozy nights or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.
Each spoonful is packed with the nostalgic flavors of a classic loaded baked potato but in a creamy, spoonable form. The crispy bacon and fresh green onions on top add the perfect contrast in texture, making it a family favorite for any occasion. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, this dish never disappoints!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, baked and diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
- Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Melt the butter in the pot, then sprinkle in the flour. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Then, add the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Add the diced baked potatoes, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the sour cream and stir to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and additional cheese if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 425 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Creamy Baked Potato Soup – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of Creamy Baked Potato Soup. This hearty dish combines the rich, buttery taste of baked potatoes with the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a touch of sour cream. It’s everything you love about a loaded baked potato, transformed into a cozy, spoonable soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or even meal prep, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Potato Soup
If you’re a fan of warm, comforting meals, this soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Here are a few reasons why it stands out:
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of whole milk, heavy cream, and melted cheese creates a luxuriously smooth soup that coats your spoon perfectly.
- Full of Flavor: From smoky bacon to sharp cheddar cheese, every bite bursts with bold flavors.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences, making it vegetarian, gluten-free, or even extra indulgent.
- Great for Meal Prep: It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: This soup requires minimal cleanup, as it all comes together in a single pot.
The Secret to the Best Baked Potato Soup
While this soup is simple to prepare, a few key techniques elevate it from good to restaurant-quality:
- Use Russet Potatoes: These potatoes have the perfect texture for soup—starchy and fluffy when cooked, making the soup thick and creamy without extra thickeners.
- Bake the Potatoes First: Instead of boiling, baking the potatoes beforehand intensifies their natural flavor, giving the soup a deeper, more authentic taste.
- Crispy Bacon Adds Depth: Cooking the bacon first and using the leftover bacon grease to sauté the onions and garlic infuses the soup with a smoky richness.
- Melt the Cheese Slowly: Stirring in the cheese gradually prevents it from clumping or becoming grainy, ensuring a silky-smooth soup.
- Balance the Flavors: A little sour cream adds tanginess, while a dash of smoked paprika enhances the overall warmth of the dish.
How to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about Baked Potato Soup is its versatility. Here are some easy modifications to make it your own:
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add roasted mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth.
- Gluten-Free Option: The recipe only uses a small amount of flour as a thickener, which can easily be replaced with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Extra Cheesy: If you love cheese, consider adding a mix of cheeses such as gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce can add some heat for those who like a little spice.
- Loaded Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Try diced avocado, jalapeños, crispy fried onions, or even crumbled blue cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, buttered slice of sourdough or a baguette is perfect for dipping.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that turns this soup into the ultimate comfort meal.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: The garlicky crunch contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with oven-roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a more balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—Baked Potato Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup can be frozen, but because of the dairy content, it may separate when reheated. If freezing, let it cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping the Baking Step: If you rush and boil the potatoes instead of baking them, you might lose the deep, roasted flavor that makes this soup special.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Cheese should be added gradually and stirred in slowly to prevent clumping.
- Over-Thickening the Soup: It will continue to thicken as it cools, so avoid adding too much flour or cornstarch.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: Potatoes can absorb a lot of seasoning, so don’t be afraid to adjust the salt and spices to taste.
- Boiling the Dairy: High heat can cause milk and cream to curdle, so always keep the soup at a gentle simmer.
Healthier Alternatives
Although this soup is indulgent, you can make a few swaps to lighten it up:
- Use Greek Yogurt: Instead of sour cream, try Greek yogurt for a protein-packed, tangy alternative.
- Reduce the Cheese: Cut back on the cheese slightly or use a lower-fat version.
- Swap Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or additional milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.
- Add More Vegetables: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or broccoli for an extra nutritional boost.
Conclusion
Creamy Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that delivers rich flavors, velvety texture, and a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or just to meal prep for the week, this soup is guaranteed to please. With endless customization options and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that anyone can enjoy.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm and hearty, grab your favorite pot and whip up a batch of this delicious soup. You’ll be rewarded with a meal that’s both nostalgic and comforting, bringing a little warmth to your table with every spoonful.