Baked Potato Soup

This Baked Potato Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. With its thick and creamy broth loaded with Turkey Bacon, cheddar cheese, and chives, this soup is a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe offers warmth and satisfaction. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of half and half and sour cream results in an indulgent texture that comforts the soul.
• Flavor Packed: Loaded with savory Turkey Bacon and fresh chives, each spoonful bursts with taste.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 45 minutes, this soup is perfect for a quick dinner solution.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter or pair it with a salad or sandwich for a complete meal.
• Crowd Pleaser: With servings for eight, it’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Baked Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Preparing ahead will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the soup without spills.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space to chop vegetables and bacon efficiently.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing ingredients smoothly without lumps.

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 the Creamy Broth

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

For Topping

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

How to Make Baked Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly. Dice them into bite-sized cubes. Chop the yellow onion, mince the garlic, and slice the Turkey Bacon into small pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, add the Turkey Bacon. Cook until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside but leave some drippings in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add butter to the same pot with drippings. Once melted, add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Simmer

Add diced potatoes along with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Blend It Up!

Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring to a regular blender), blend part of the soup until it’s creamy yet still has some chunks for texture.

Step 7: Finish with Creaminess

Stir in half-and-half and sour cream until fully combined. Heat through without boiling.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Ladle into bowls and top each serving with crispy Turkey Bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and finely diced chives. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Baked Potato Soup!

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

Baked Potato Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a light meal or a hearty side, serving this creamy soup can elevate your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Chives – Finely diced chives add a fresh, oniony flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for an extra cheesy goodness and visual appeal.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and creaminess, making each spoonful delightful.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread – Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping and added texture.
• Garlic Bread – Garlic bread brings a savory crunch that pairs well with the creamy broth.

Add Protein

• Grilled Chicken – For a heartier meal, serve grilled chicken alongside or mixed into the soup.
• Turkey Bacon Crumbles – Extra turkey bacon on top enhances the smoky flavor and adds protein.

How to Perfect Baked Potato Soup

Creating the perfect Baked Potato Soup is easy when you follow these simple tips. With just a few adjustments, you can elevate your soup to new heights.

• Use Fresh Potatoes – Fresh russet potatoes yield creamier texture and better flavor compared to older ones.
• Cook Bacon Until Crispy – Crisp turkey bacon adds texture and flavor to your soup, enhancing each bite.
• Blend for Creaminess – For an ultra-smooth consistency, blend some of the soup before adding back the chunks of potato.
• Adjust Seasoning Last – Taste before adding additional salt or pepper; flavors develop as it simmers.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Potato Soup

To complement your Baked Potato Soup, consider these delicious side dishes. They enhance the meal while providing variety.

1. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens offers freshness that balances the richness of the soup.
2. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits with cheese and garlic make for a comforting accompaniment.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch alongside the creamy soup.
5. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins bring a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
6. Caprese Salad Skewers – These skewers are refreshing bites that pair beautifully with Baked Potato Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Potato Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can detract from your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the salt: Salt enhances flavors. Always add it to your soup to maximize taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a big difference. Invest in good potatoes and cheese for the best results.
• Not blending enough: For a creamy texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly. A hand blender or regular blender works well.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Mushy potatoes can ruin the soup’s consistency. Cook them until tender but not falling apart.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like chives and cheese add flavor and texture. Don’t skip them for a complete experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Baked Potato Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers to allow for expansion.

Reheating Baked Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Potato Soup:

How can I make my Baked Potato Soup healthier?

You can substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for fewer calories without sacrificing taste.

Can I use other types of bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Absolutely! Feel free to use regular bacon or even vegetarian bacon if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What toppings go well with Baked Potato Soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, sour cream, and fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor.

How do I thicken my Baked Potato Soup?

If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add more flour while cooking. Alternatively, simmer it longer to reduce liquid.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well and often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Just follow storage instructions above.

Final Thoughts

Baked Potato Soup is truly the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!