Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe

The Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe is one of those heartwarming dishes that instantly makes your kitchen feel like home. With creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich cheesy broth, this soup strikes the perfect balance between comfort and simplicity. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a flavorful lunch that’s quick to whip up, this recipe delivers every single time with minimal effort but maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe relies on a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy bacon adding smoky depth to the tender potatoes providing the creamy base, making the flavor harmonious and the texture irresistibly comforting.

• Bacon (6 strips): Crispy bacon is the soul of this soup, lending a smoky crunch that keeps every spoonful exciting.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Adds a gentle sweetness and aroma that deepens the overall flavor profile.
• Russet potatoes (4 large, diced): Their starchy goodness breaks down beautifully to create a thick, luscious body for the soup.
• Flour (1/4 cup): The secret thickening agent that gives the soup its velvety smooth texture.
• Whole milk (4 cups): Provides rich creaminess that balances the savory ingredients perfectly.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Boosts the depth and umami, making the soup more complex and satisfying.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Just a hint of warmth and pungency to brighten up the soup.
• Cheddar cheese (3/4 cup grated): Melted into the soup for that sharp, creamy kick that makes it downright addictive.
• Chopped scallions (to taste): Fresh green bites of flavor and color for a delightful contrast.
• Sour cream (3/4 cup): Adds tangy creaminess that enriches the soup and rounds out the flavors.
• Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to tie everything together and enhance every ingredient.

How to Make Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cutting the bacon into bite-sized pieces using kitchen shears for ease, then cook it over medium-high heat until crispy and golden brown. This process takes about 10 minutes and not only delivers that crave-worthy crunch, but also leaves behind flavorful bacon fat that becomes the foundation for your soup’s rich taste.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the bacon is sizzling, chop your onion and dice the potatoes. You can peel your potatoes if you prefer a smooth texture, or leave the skins on for added earthiness and color. This quick prep sets you up for a speedy and smooth cooking experience.

Step 3: Reserve Bacon, Keep the Fat

Once the bacon is done, transfer it to a paper towel to drain. Leave about two tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot—it will bring an incredible depth of flavor to your soup later on. If you have extra bacon fat, save it for other recipes because it’s liquid gold in the kitchen.

Step 4: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the warmed bacon fat and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. This step develops sweetness and layers of flavor that complement the smoky bacon beautifully.

Step 5: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and stir continuously for about a minute. Cooking the flour helps eliminate any raw taste while giving your soup a lovely, thick texture once liquid is added.

Step 6: Add Milk Slowly

Slowly whisk in the whole milk, ensuring the flour dissolves completely without any lumps. This gradual process is key to achieving a creamy, silky soup base that hugs every spoonful lovingly.

Step 7: Combine Broth, Garlic, and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth, add the minced garlic, and toss in the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture up to a boil over high heat while scraping the browned bits off the bottom of the pot—these little morsels enhance flavor significantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes until the potatoes become fall-apart tender.

Step 8: Prepare Toppings

While the soup is simmering, grate your cheddar cheese, chop scallions, and measure out the sour cream so you’re ready to add them when the soup is cooked. This is the fun part where you assemble the elements that make the soup truly special.

Step 9: Mash for Creaminess

Once potatoes are soft, gently mash them slightly in the pot using a potato masher for a thicker, creamier texture. If you like more texture and chunks, you can leave them as they are. Either way, this step personalizes the soup just for your taste preferences.

Step 10: Finish and Serve

Stir in the sour cream, most of the cheddar, and the crispy bacon pieces into the soup. Season well with salt and pepper according to your liking. When serving, top each bowl with the remaining cheddar, bacon, and a sprinkle of chopped scallions for a vibrant, flavorful finish.

How to Serve Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped scallions, crispy bacon, and extra shredded cheddar cheese make ideal garnishes. They add pops of color, texture, and bursts of flavor that transform each bite. A small dollop of sour cream on top also adds a cool creaminess contrast that pairs beautifully with the hot soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a warm crusty baguette or garlic bread to mop up the savory broth. A crisp green salad or lightly dressed steamed vegetables also provide fresh contrast without overpowering the rich, comforting soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini baked potatoes or bread bowls to make mealtime interactive and visually appealing. You could also sprinkle smoked paprika or crispy fried onions on top for unexpected flavor layers that will impress anyone lucky enough to join your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will meld nicely overnight, making it even better the next day. Just be sure to give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it to your desired consistency. Avoid boiling after adding sour cream to keep the texture smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are preferred for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup naturally, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also work if you want a slightly creamier and buttery flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also substitute smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor that bacon typically provides.

Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Yes, you can use unsweetened non-dairy milks like almond or oat milk, but keep in mind the soup may be slightly less creamy. Adding a dairy-free cheese or coconut cream can help maintain richness.

How do I make this soup thicker if it’s too thin?

If the soup feels too watery, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce, or mash more of the potatoes directly in the pot to naturally thicken it up.

What are some additional toppings I can try?

Try crispy fried onions, chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick. The toppings are your playground to experiment!

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe because it combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity in a way that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weeknight treat for yourself, I hope this recipe inspires you to cozy up with a bowl of deliciousness you made with your own hands. Give it a go — your taste buds will thank you!

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