Craving something warm, creamy, and utterly comforting? This easy baked potato soup recipe is just what you need! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to indulge in a rich and savory meal, this soup delivers on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe breaks it all down into simple, manageable steps that ensure a fantastic outcome every time. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and tricks to master this classic dish.

What is Baked Potato Soup?

Baked potato soup is a creamy, hearty soup made primarily from baked potatoes, broth, milk, and seasonings. It's loaded with the savory flavors of bacon, cheese, and green onions, making it a rich and satisfying dish perfect for cooler weather. The texture is smooth, with small chunks of potato providing a bit of chew, and the topping options can be customized to your liking. Imagine everything you love about a fully-loaded baked potato but in soup form—irresistible, right?

Ingredients List for Baked Potato Soup

To make this simple yet delicious baked potato soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

6 large russet potatoes: These potatoes are starchy and perfect for creating that creamy texture.
1 medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and a bit of sweetness.
4 cups chicken broth: Acts as the base of the soup.
2 cups whole milk: Creamy, full-bodied milk helps give the soup richness.
1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess.
8 slices bacon: For that smoky, salty flavor.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides melty, cheesy goodness.
4 tablespoons butter: For sautéing and extra richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds warmth and slight spice.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: For garnish and a bit of fresh crunch.
Optional toppings: Chopped chives, extra bacon, extra cheese, sour cream.

Substitutions and Variations

The best part about this baked potato soup recipe is its versatility. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:

Vegetarian option: Swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. You can also find dairy-free versions of sour cream and cheese.
Low-carb version: Replace some or all of the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lower-carb, lighter soup. This still gives you that creamy texture without all the starchy carbs.
Spicy kick: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for an extra layer of flavor.
Thicker soup: For a heartier texture, stir in a little bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken the soup without adding extra ingredients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is simple to follow, even if you're new to cooking. Let’s walk through each step to ensure your baked potato soup turns out perfectly.

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

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, pierce them with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the skins are crisp and the insides are soft. Let the potatoes cool slightly before handling.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cool, crumble it into small pieces. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. As the broth heats, scoop the flesh out of the baked potatoes and roughly mash it with a fork or potato masher. You can leave some chunks if you prefer a chunkier soup or mash it completely for a smoother consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the mashed potatoes to the simmering broth and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, stir in the milk, and let the soup heat through for about 10 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so the milk doesn’t scald.

Step 6: Stir in the Sour Cream and Cheese
Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a velvety, creamy soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Add Bacon and Serve
Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, saving the rest for garnish. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with additional cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the bacon: You want crispy, not burnt bacon. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the heat as soon as it’s done.
Burning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so only cook it for about 30-60 seconds after the onions have softened.
Curdling the milk: Make sure to simmer the soup on low heat after adding the milk to prevent curdling. Stir occasionally to avoid any scorching at the bottom of the pot.
Under-seasoning: Potatoes need salt to enhance their flavor, so don’t skimp on seasoning the soup. Taste and adjust as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving and presenting your baked potato soup, a little bit of creativity goes a long way. You can keep it simple with basic toppings or elevate it for a fancier meal.

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Baked potato soup is best served hot and fresh. However, if you’re serving it to a large group or prepping ahead, you can keep it warm in a slow cooker or reheat it gently on the stovetop. Pair the soup with a light green salad, crusty bread, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a more substantial meal.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Potato Soup

Loaded bowl: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Add a swirl of sour cream or a sprinkling of chopped chives for color.
Bread bowl: For a restaurant-style touch, serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. The soup soaks into the bread, making it even more delicious.
Crispy garnish: For added texture, sprinkle some homemade croutons or crispy fried onions on top.

Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

Adjust the texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you like it chunky, leave the potatoes mashed instead of blended.
Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it slowly on the stovetop to avoid curdling.
Freezing: You can freeze this soup without the sour cream, as it can split when thawed. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup and then stir in fresh sour cream after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make it a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze baked potato soup?
A: Yes, but omit the sour cream before freezing. Add it in after the soup has been reheated to prevent it from curdling.

Q: How can I make this soup healthier?
A: You can use lower-fat milk or a milk alternative, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables like carrots or celery to increase the nutritional value.

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?
A: Russet potatoes are best for this recipe due to their starch content, but you can substitute Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a slightly different texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This easy baked potato soup recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser, perfect for when you want something warm, hearty, and comforting. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this versatile dish will not disappoint. Try it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness!