Baked Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing like a warm bowl of baked potato soup to comfort you on a chilly day. This creamy and hearty soup, loaded with tender potatoes, crispy beef bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, is perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a delicious meal that’s simple yet satisfying. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup

To create the perfect baked potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (2 lbs.)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 6 slices beef 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
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/8 cup chives, finely diced

this RECIPE

Preparation Tips

To ensure a smooth cooking process, start by prepping all your ingredients:

• Shred the cheese from a block to ensure a smooth melt.
• Measure out the sour cream and half and half and let them sit at room temperature. This helps them incorporate better into the soup, preventing any curdling.
• Peel and cube the potatoes into 1-inch pieces to cook them evenly.

Cooking Tools Needed

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these essential kitchen tools on hand:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Stockpot
• Kitchen shears
• Silicone spatula
• Immersion blender or regular blender (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Bacon

Cut the beef bacon into 1-inch squares using kitchen shears. In a large pot, cook the beef bacon over low heat, rotating occasionally. The pieces may overlap at first but will shrink as they cook. Once crispy, remove them from the pot and set them aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot for added flavor.

2. Boil the Potatoes

While the beef bacon is cooking, peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Place the cubed potatoes in a stockpot and cover them with water, adding ¾ teaspoon salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook gently for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are very fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them gently, then set them aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the pot with the reserved beef bacon drippings, add the diced onions. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and butter and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Create the Soup Base

Sprinkle the flour into the pot and whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring with a silicone spatula to deglaze the bottom of the pot and incorporate all the flavors from the beef bacon drippings.

5. Add the Cream and Potatoes

Slowly add the half and half, bringing the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce to a simmer and add the mashed potatoes, stirring well to combine. Then, mix in the sour cream and pepper.

6. Blend for a Creamier Texture (Optional)

For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot or transfer it to a blender in batches. This step is optional but highly recommended for a creamier texture.

7. Add the Cheese

Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously. Ensure that the soup base is not too hot; otherwise, the cheese may become grainy instead of smooth and creamy. The soup will thicken as it sits.

8. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with finely diced chives and the reserved crispy beef bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious soup!

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Potato Soup

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding cheese from a block ensures a creamy consistency.
• Let Dairy Ingredients Reach Room Temperature: Incorporating cold dairy ingredients can cause curdling. Let the sour cream and half and half sit out at room temperature before adding them to the soup.
• Blend for Your Preferred Texture: Blending the soup creates a smooth, velvety texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overheating the Soup Base: Avoid adding cheese to boiling soup, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate or become grainy.
• Skipping the Flour Step: The flour acts as a thickening agent, so cooking it with the butter and aromatics is essential for the perfect consistency.
• Forgetting to Deglaze the Pot: Make sure to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pot when adding the broth, as this adds flavor to your soup.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap Beef Bacon for Turkey Bacon: For a lighter version, substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots, celery, or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
• Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream: For a tangier flavor and a boost of protein, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a hearty presentation.
• Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or finely chopped green onions for added visual appeal.
• Pair the soup with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or half and half to thin it to your desired consistency.

FAQ About Baked Potato Soup

1. Can I make baked potato soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze baked potato soup?
Potato-based soups can sometimes change texture when frozen. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the dairy ingredients and adding them fresh after reheating.

3. How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?
Ensure the soup base is not too hot when adding the cheese, and add it gradually while stirring to create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this delicious baked potato soup with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal.

conclusion

This baked potato soup recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a cozy night in. It’s easy to make, delicious, and customizable to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!

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