Looking for a warm hug in a bowl? This Baked Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and easy to make! With just a few simple ingredients like russet potatoes, cheese, and broth, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Whether you’re cozy on a chilly evening or need a quick dinner, this soup has you covered. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide and create your new favorite comfort dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup
– 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free
– 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
– 4 slices of crispy cooked turkey bacon or plant-based bacon, chopped (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chives or green onions for garnish
Tools Needed
– Large pot
– Potato masher or immersion blender
– Measuring cups and spoons
When I make baked potato soup, I focus on simple, fresh ingredients. Russet potatoes are my go-to for this dish. They create a creamy texture that feels cozy. The onion adds a sweet base, while garlic gives depth. Vegetable broth keeps it light, but you can use chicken broth for more flavor.
For creaminess, I love using heavy cream. If you want a lighter option, coconut cream works well too. Cheese is a must! Sharp cheddar brings a bold taste. You can add crispy bacon for crunch, or skip it for a vegetarian version.
The fresh thyme gives the soup a lovely scent. It pairs well with the potatoes. Finally, salt and pepper are key for balancing flavors.
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. A large pot helps cook everything together. I use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend the soup to my liking. Measuring cups and spoons help keep portions accurate.
If you’re ready to dive into this creamy delight, check out the Full Recipe for all the steps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Process
1. Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. You can also use olive oil if you prefer.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about five minutes. You want the onion to be translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one to two more minutes. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Now, add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot.
5. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Blending and Adding Cream
1. Once the potatoes are soft, it’s time to mash or blend the soup. You can use a potato masher or an immersion blender.
2. Blend it to your desired consistency. If you like some chunks, don’t blend too much!
3. Now, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the soup gets creamy.
Final Seasoning
1. Add the fresh thyme to the soup. This herb brings a lovely flavor.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If you want to add crispy bacon, this is the time to mix it in.
4. Let the soup simmer for five more minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.
For the full recipe, check out the comprehensive guide. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of baked potato soup!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your baked potato soup shine, use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme adds a bright taste. You can also try chives or parsley for extra zest. You can adjust the soup’s thickness by changing the blending time. Blend it less for a chunkier soup, or more for a creamy texture.
Making it Dairy-Free
If you want a dairy-free version, swap heavy cream for coconut cream. This gives a rich taste without dairy. You can also explore plant-based cheese options. These options make the soup creamy and keep it vegan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. This adds a nice crunch and balance to the meal. For a special touch, top the soup with extra cheese and chopped chives. This makes the dish look great and taste even better.
Variations
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
You can make this soup even better! Add sour cream for that creamy feel. Top it with jalapeños for heat and green onions for freshness. These extras give great flavor and crunch. Each bite becomes a delicious treat. You can enjoy the classic taste while trying something new.
Spicy Baked Potato Soup
Love a kick? Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes. This gives the soup a zesty edge. The heat pairs well with the creamy texture. It warms you up on chilly days. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. If you like bold flavors, this is for you!
Different Cheese Options
Cheese lovers, rejoice! You can swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack. Mozzarella makes it stretchy and mild. Pepper jack adds a nice spicy note. Each cheese brings its own charm to the soup. Feel free to mix and match! The cheese transforms the dish into your perfect bowl of comfort.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
Store your baked potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing.
Freezing Tips
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portions. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave. This keeps the soup creamy.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, stir the soup well. If it seems too thick, add a splash of broth. This helps bring back its creamy texture. Enjoy your comforting bowl of baked potato soup!
FAQs
Can I make Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup reheats well. I often make a big batch on Sunday. It stays tasty for days. Just store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready, heat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
How do I make Baked Potato Soup thicker?
You can mash more potatoes or add a thickening agent like cornstarch. Mashing gives the soup a creamy feel. If you prefer, mix cornstarch with cold water first. Stir this mix into the soup while it’s simmering. Let it cook a bit longer to thicken up nicely.
What is the best way to serve Baked Potato Soup?
Serve hot with your choice of toppings for added flavor. Some great options include extra cheese, crispy bacon, or fresh chives. You can also add sour cream for a tangy bite. A slice of crusty bread on the side makes it a full meal.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, but russet potatoes provide the best texture and flavor. They are creamy when cooked and mash well. Other potatoes may work, but they might not give you the same rich taste. Stick with russets for that perfect baked potato soup experience.
This baked potato soup is easy and delicious. We covered main ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for flavor, dairy-free options, and variations to try. Storing leftovers and reheating are simple too.
In closing, this soup is a great choice for meals. Feel free to mix and match flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy the creamy goodness any time of year!
