I’m excited to share my baked potato soup recipe with you. This warm, creamy soup is a comforting meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
Level: Easy
Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
I love making baked potato soup because it’s both simple and full of flavor. The mix of crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a smooth, creamy broth makes this dish a real treat. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you need something satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Description
In this recipe, I use everyday ingredients that work perfectly together. I start by crisping up bacon and then use its tasty fat to sauté onions and garlic. A little flour, salt, basil, and black pepper form a light roux that thickens the broth. I slowly whisk in chicken broth to create a smooth base before stirring in baked potatoes and half and half cream. A touch of Tabasco adds just the right hint of spice, and the soup is finished off with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and extra bacon on top for crunch and flavor.
Ingredients
• 3 bacon strips, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 tbs. all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups baked potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup half and half cream
• 1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbs. minced fresh parsley
Directions
- Cook the Bacon:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the bacon is crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on paper towels. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same saucepan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. - Make the Roux:
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, salt, dried basil, and black pepper. Stir constantly and cook for about 1 minute. This helps to blend the flavors and thickens the broth. - Add the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 2 minutes so it starts to thicken. - Mix in Potatoes and Cream:
Stir in the cubed baked potatoes, half and half cream, and Tabasco sauce. Cook just until everything is thoroughly heated, being careful not to boil once the cream is added. - Finish and Serve:
Remove the soup from the heat. Spoon the soup into bowls and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and the crisp bacon over the top. Enjoy your delicious, comforting soup!
Process Details
• Bacon and Aromatics: I begin by crisping the bacon to use its flavorful fat for sautéing the onions and garlic. This step really builds a rich base for the soup.
• Creating a Roux: Adding the flour with herbs and spices forms a light roux that helps thicken the soup and blends the flavors together.
• Gentle Heating: Stirring in the potatoes and cream at the end keeps their texture soft and ensures the soup remains smooth and creamy.
Tips for Success
• Uniform Ingredients: Dice the potatoes into even cubes to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Stir Constantly: When whisking in the broth, stirring constantly will help prevent lumps from forming.
• Adjust the Spice: Taste your soup as you go; add more Tabasco if you like a bit more kick, or adjust the salt to suit your taste.
• Low Heat for Cream: Once you add the cream, keep the heat low to avoid curdling and to maintain a silky texture.
Serving Ideas
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of the savory broth.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great accompaniment to balance the richness of the soup.
• Extra Toppings: Try adding a dollop of sour cream or an extra sprinkle of bacon bits for more flavor and texture.
Nutrition Info (Approximate per Serving)
• Calories: 350–400
• Fat: 20–25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30–35 grams
• Protein: 12–15 grams
I believe this baked potato soup is a wonderful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Its creamy texture, combined with crispy bacon and a hint of spice, makes it a perfect meal for any day. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this soup as much as I do!
