Baked Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Baked Potato Soup: Is there anything more comforting on a chilly evening? Imagine sinking into a warm bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness, brimming with the familiar flavors of a perfectly loaded baked potato. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, and I’m so excited to share my favorite recipe with you!

The humble baked potato, a staple in many cultures, has a surprisingly rich history. From its origins in South America to its widespread adoption across the globe, the potato has been a source of sustenance and comfort for centuries. Transforming it into a creamy soup is a relatively modern invention, but one that perfectly captures the essence of this beloved vegetable.

What makes Baked Potato Soup so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and tastes. The creamy base, often enriched with cheese and butter, is perfectly balanced by the savory bacon, the tangy sour cream, and the fresh chives. It’s a dish that’s both decadent and comforting, simple to make yet deeply satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings and adjust the consistency to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this soup is sure to be a hit. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 6 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for garnish
• 1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon, for garnish (optional)
• Sour cream, for garnish (optional)

Baking the Potatoes:

The key to a truly amazing baked potato soup is starting with perfectly baked potatoes. This step is crucial for developing that rich, earthy flavor that forms the base of our soup. Don’t skip it!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you start. This ensures even cooking and prevents the potatoes from becoming soggy.
2. Prepare the potatoes. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. We want to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil adhere properly and ensures crispy skins.
3. Coat the potatoes with olive oil. Place the dried potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle them with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Using your hands, rub the oil all over each potato, making sure they are evenly coated. This will help the skins crisp up beautifully in the oven.
4. Season the potatoes. Sprinkle the potatoes generously with salt and pepper. Again, use your hands to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. The salt will draw out moisture and contribute to the crispy skin.
5. Bake the potatoes. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack. This allows for better air circulation and promotes even cooking. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your potatoes. You’ll know they’re done when they feel soft and yielding when squeezed gently (use oven mitts!).
6. Let the potatoes cool slightly. Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10-15 minutes. This will make them easier to handle without burning yourself.

Preparing the Soup Base:

While the potatoes are cooling, we can start building the flavor base of our soup. This involves sautéing the aromatics and creating a creamy, flavorful broth.

1. Sauté the onion. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. We want the onion to be soft and sweet, not browned.
2. Add the garlic. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Add the chicken broth. Pour the chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Adding the Potatoes and Creaminess:

Now comes the fun part – adding the baked potatoes and transforming the broth into a creamy, comforting soup!

1. Scoop out the potato flesh. Carefully cut each baked potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh of the potatoes, leaving the skins behind. Discard the skins (or save them for another use, like potato skins appetizers!).
2. Add the potato flesh to the soup. Add the scooped-out potato flesh to the pot with the chicken broth.
3. Blend the soup (optional). For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth. If using a regular blender, be sure to vent the lid to prevent pressure from building up. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step or only partially blend it. I personally like a little bit of texture!
4. Add the cream cheese. Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and add it to the soup. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
5. Stir in the heavy cream. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. The heavy cream adds richness and depth to the soup.
6. Season the soup. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember that the bacon and cheese toppings will also add saltiness, so don’t over-season at this stage.
7. Simmer the soup. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serving and Garnishing:

The final touch! This is where you can really customize your soup and make it your own. Get creative with your toppings!

1. Ladle the soup into bowls. Carefully ladle the hot soup into individual serving bowls.
2. Garnish the soup. Garnish each bowl of soup with chopped fresh chives, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled cooked bacon (if using). You can also add a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Other topping options include green onions, jalapenos, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
3. Serve immediately. Serve the baked potato soup immediately while it’s hot and the toppings are fresh.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
• Add vegetables: Sauté diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onion for added flavor and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a little heat.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gruyere.
• Make it ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
• Freezing: While the texture might change slightly, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Be aware that the cream may separate slightly upon thawing; whisk vigorously to recombine.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting baked potato soup!

Conclusion:

This Baked Potato Soup recipe isn’t just another soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic elevated to something truly special. From the creamy, dreamy texture to the explosion of flavors with every spoonful, it’s a dish that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible depth of flavor you achieve with just a few key ingredients. Forget those watery, bland soups you might have had before; this is the real deal, a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. Why is this a must-try? Because it’s ridiculously easy to make, incredibly delicious, and endlessly customizable. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover baked potatoes, turning them into something truly extraordinary. I promise, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! But the fun doesn’t stop there! This soup is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and variations to make it your own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Toppings: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese, and a scattering of chopped chives are the classic choices for a reason. They add texture, flavor, and a touch of indulgence. * Spice It Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier flavor profile. * Go Green: Add some chopped broccoli or spinach to the soup for a boost of nutrients and a pop of color. Sauté them lightly before adding them to the pot for the best flavor. * Creamy Dreamy: For an even richer and creamier soup, stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese at the end of cooking. * Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Take it to the next level by adding cooked ham, crumbled sausage, or even pulled pork to the soup. This turns it into a truly hearty and satisfying meal. * Vegan Option: Easily make this soup vegan by using plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives. You can also use vegan bacon bits and cheese. I truly believe that this Baked Potato Soup recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to introduce kids to cooking, as they can help with tasks like peeling potatoes or adding toppings. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your potatoes, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your variations. Tag me on social media and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see your delicious bowls of Baked Potato Soup!

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