Baked Potato Soup

This creamy baked potato soup is the perfect dish to serve on a chilly day. The combination of tender potatoes, savory broth, and a velvety smooth texture makes each spoonful incredibly comforting. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream, it’s a bowl of pure indulgence! This soup is wonderfully adaptable too. You can make it as chunky or smooth as you like by adjusting how much you mash or blend the potatoes. Whether you serve it with a side of crusty bread or enjoy it on its own, this baked potato soup will quickly become a go-to favorite for cozy nights in.

Full recipe:

1. Ingredients:

• 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 2 cups milk

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Directions:

1. In a large pot, combine the potatoes, onion, garlic, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a paste. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

3. Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or mash with a potato masher for a chunkier consistency.

4. Stir in the milk mixture, salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat through until hot and creamy.

5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Background of Baked Potato Soup

Baked potato soup is a comforting and hearty dish that has become a staple in many homes, especially during the colder months. This dish takes inspiration from the beloved baked potato, which is typically topped with sour cream, butter, cheddar cheese, and green onions. By turning these classic ingredients into a creamy soup, you create a rich, velvety bowl of warmth that is both satisfying and indulgent. It’s the perfect combination of creamy and savory flavors, making it an excellent meal for cozy evenings, family dinners, or even casual gatherings.

The origins of baked potato soup are hard to trace, but it is commonly thought to have originated in American kitchens as a way to make use of simple, affordable ingredients. Potatoes are one of the most versatile and widely available vegetables, and they lend themselves wonderfully to being made into soups due to their starchy, creamy texture when cooked. Over time, chefs and home cooks alike have experimented with various ways to elevate baked potato soup, from adding bacon to incorporating different types of cheese or herbs. The result is a dish that is flexible, full of flavor, and ultimately a great comfort food.

Why This Recipe is the Best

When it comes to baked potato soup, simplicity is key, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. This recipe stands out because it takes all of the comforting qualities of a classic baked potato and transforms them into a soup that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. What sets this recipe apart is its focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the natural sweetness and creaminess of the potatoes.

One of the reasons this baked potato soup recipe is so great is the use of vegetable broth as a base. While some recipes use chicken broth, vegetable broth gives the soup a lighter, cleaner flavor that lets the potatoes shine. The addition of milk and butter creates a velvety, creamy texture that complements the richness of the cheddar cheese and sour cream. By blending or mashing the potatoes, you can control the texture of the soup to your preference, whether you like it smooth or with a bit of chunkiness. This customization makes it a perfect dish for any crowd.

Health Benefits of Baked Potato Soup

While baked potato soup is often associated with comfort food indulgence, it doesn’t have to be all about the calories. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, which is essential for heart health and regulating blood pressure. They also provide vitamin C, which is vital for a healthy immune system. If you use a vegetable broth as the base, this soup can also be a light yet filling dish, making it suitable for those following vegetarian or even vegan diets (with some small modifications).

Additionally, this recipe allows for customization, meaning you can make it a little healthier by reducing the amount of butter or cheese, or by adding extra veggies like kale or carrots to boost the nutritional value. If you want a lower-fat version, you can opt for a non-dairy milk and skip the sour cream, or use a plant-based alternative for both the cheese and the sour cream. This makes baked potato soup versatile, allowing it to fit into a variety of dietary preferences.

How to Customize the Recipe

This baked potato soup is highly customizable, which is another reason why it’s a fan favorite. If you like a richer flavor, feel free to use heavy cream or whole milk instead of just milk. You can also add bacon bits for a smoky, savory touch, or pile on extra cheese for an indulgent finish. For a healthier version, you can skip the butter altogether, add more vegetables, and use low-fat cheese options or even nutritional yeast to give it a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

If you love a little spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the soup. For those looking to add some greens to the mix, chopped spinach or kale are great additions that will bring color and nutrients to the dish without compromising the taste. Furthermore, a dash of fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, can elevate the flavor and add a layer of freshness to each bowl.

Tips for Perfecting the Soup

1. Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best option for this soup. They are starchy and absorb the broth well, creating a smooth, creamy texture when blended. They also break down nicely and become velvety when cooked, making them perfect for soups.
2. Blend or Mash: The texture of the soup can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a smooth and creamy consistency, use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée the soup. For a chunkier version, you can simply mash the potatoes with a potato masher.
3. Season Carefully: Make sure to season the soup well. The natural sweetness of the potatoes can be complemented by salt, pepper, and paprika, but it’s important to taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right.
4. Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Potatoes cook quickly, so be sure to watch them closely. Overcooking them can cause them to become too mushy, making it hard to achieve the desired texture in the soup.
5. Garnish for Extra Flavor: After the soup is done, don’t forget to garnish it with fresh toppings. Green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream are all great ways to add flavor and texture. A sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs can make the soup visually appealing, too.

Serving Suggestions

Baked potato soup is wonderfully filling on its own, but if you’re looking to complete your meal, it pairs well with a side of fresh bread, like a crusty baguette or a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread. You could also serve it with a fresh salad to add some crunch and lightness to the meal. For a more substantial meal, add a protein like grilled chicken or even roasted chickpeas for an extra boost of nutrition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, baked potato soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering rich, creamy flavors that warm you up from the inside out. It is not only delicious and satisfying but also incredibly versatile, allowing for various dietary adaptations and flavor variations. Whether you enjoy it with bacon and cheese or opt for a lighter version, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a dish that’s perfect for cold weather, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. Make a batch today, and enjoy the warmth and comfort that comes with every spoonful!