Baked Potato Soup

This Baked Potato Soup is your go-to comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. With its rich, creamy broth filled with Turkey Bacon, cheddar cheese, and chives, this soup brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Enjoy the cozy flavors that make this dish a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Turkey Bacon and creamy ingredients creates a savory taste that will delight your palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve this soup as a hearty main dish or as a side during your next gathering; it pairs wonderfully with bread or salads.
• Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for any season, this soup warms you up on cold days while satisfying your cravings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with potatoes and topped with chives, this soup offers a balance of flavors and nutrients.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Baked Potato Soup, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Potato masher (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spillage.
• Chef’s knife: Provides precision when chopping vegetables like onions and garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient ratios for perfect flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 4 large russet potatoes (equal to 2 lbs.)
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 6 slices thick cut Turkey Bacon
• 1 large yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 Tablespoon butter

For Thickening and Creaminess

• ¼ cup flour
• 3 ½ cups Chicken broth
• 2 cups half and half
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For Toppings

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/8 cup chives (finely diced)

How to Make Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly. Peel them if desired, then dice into small cubes. This helps them cook faster.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large pot, cook the Turkey Bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the pot, crumble it, and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Using the same pot with some bacon drippings, add diced onions. Sauté until they are translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer until potatoes are tender (about 20 minutes).

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, melt butter over low heat. Stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in half-and-half until smooth. Combine this mixture into the pot.

Step 6: Final Touches

Add sour cream, salt, pepper, crumbled Turkey Bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Potato Soup!

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Baked Potato Soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary items enhances its flavor and makes for a delightful meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty French Bread – Slice and serve alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks – These add a flavorful crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.

As a Meal Topping

• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle on top for extra freshness and color.
• Extra Cheese – Add more shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy delight.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic choice that adds crispness to the meal.
• Garden Salad – Light and refreshing, balancing the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Baked Potato Soup

To achieve an even better version of Baked Potato Soup, follow these simple tips for a delicious outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh potatoes and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
• Cook Bacon Until Crispy – This adds an appealing texture and rich taste to the soup.
• Blend for Creaminess – For an ultra-smooth finish, blend part of the soup before serving.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Always taste before serving; you may need a bit more salt or pepper.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with Baked Potato Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese make a perfect complement.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These provide a slight crunch and nutty flavor that contrast nicely with the creamy soup.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add brightness to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Hearty stuffed peppers are substantial enough to stand up to the soup’s richness.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful sweetness that balances out the flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers a variety of tastes and textures for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Potato Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Using the wrong potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup due to their starchy texture. Other types may not yield the same creamy consistency.
• Not seasoning adequately: Salt enhances flavors significantly. Be sure to season your broth and potatoes properly to avoid a bland soup.
• Skipping the flour: Flour is essential for thickening your soup. Omitting it will result in a watery texture that lacks richness.
• Overcooking the bacon: Turkey bacon adds flavor and texture. Cook it until crispy but avoid burning it, which can create bitterness.
• Ignoring the chives: Fresh chives not only add color but also provide a fresh taste. Don’t skip this garnish or substitute with dried chives.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Baked Potato Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and cover. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Potato Soup.

How long does Baked Potato Soup last?

Baked Potato Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months if properly stored.

Can I make Baked Potato Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace turkey bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What toppings work well with Baked Potato Soup?

Popular toppings include crispy turkey bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh chives, adding both flavor and texture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Certainly! While cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with gouda or pepper jack for different flavor profiles in your Baked Potato Soup.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying. Versatile and easy to customize, you can add your favorite toppings or adjust ingredients based on what you have at home. Give it a try; it may become your go-to recipe!