Baked Potato Soup

Warm and Creamy Baked Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Baked Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of baked potatoes with the richness of cheese, sour cream, and bacon. This recipe transforms the humble potato into a creamy, indulgent soup that's perfect for chilly evenings. With its creamy texture and savory toppings, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.

History

The origins of Baked Potato Soup can be traced back to the culinary traditions of Northern Europe, where potatoes have been a staple food for centuries. The concept of turning baked potatoes into a creamy soup likely evolved from the need to use leftover potatoes in a delicious and economical way. Over time, the recipe has been embraced and adapted by cooks around the world, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create various versions of this beloved dish.

Ingredients

4 – 5 baking potatoes
2 cups water
1 qt (946 ml) milk
0.5 cup celery
0.25 cup butter
0.5 cup sour cream
0.33 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
0.33 cup chopped green onion
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Place the potatoes in the oven and cook for about 1 hour at 350°F (177°C).
Meanwhile, heat water in a large saucepan and add chopped celery. Simmer until the celery is tender.
When the potatoes are fully cooked, slice them down the center and scoop out the pulp from each potato. Add the pulp to the celery and water mixture.
Add milk, butter, sour cream, bacon, green onions, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, parsley or dill, salt, and pepper.
Allow the mixture to simmer over low-medium heat until it thickens.
Serve hot with sprinkled cheddar cheese on top. You may also top it with chives (from the top of the green onions), bacon pieces, and sour cream.

The Skinny

Use low-fat milk, sour cream, and cheese.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Swiss, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best Baked Potato Soup, use starchy potatoes like Russets, which have the ideal texture for baking and blending into soup. To enhance the flavor, bake the potatoes instead of boiling them, as this method concentrates their natural sweetness and earthiness. For a smoother soup, blend part of the potato mixture before adding the cheese and other toppings. Lastly, don't skimp on the toppings – they add texture and flavor that elevate the soup from good to great.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Potato Soup hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese, crispy bacon bits, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream. Accompany it with a slice of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the potatoes instead of boiling them enhances their flavor and texture, making them the perfect base for this soup. Simmering the soup after adding the dairy ingredients allows the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken to the perfect consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute low-fat milk, sour cream, and cheese. You can also replace the bacon with turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative. If dill isn't available, parsley or chives make excellent substitutes.

Make Ahead Tips

Baked Potato Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra milk if the soup has thickened too much.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an impressive presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Baked Potato Soup with a crisp, green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied beer complements the creamy richness of the soup beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the soup is too thick.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Potato Soup contains approximately 350 calories. By substituting low-fat milk, sour cream, and cheese, the calorie count can be reduced for those watching their intake.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baked Potato Soup contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the potatoes, which are a natural and wholesome source. The milk and sour cream also contribute a small amount of carbohydrates. This soup provides a good balance of complex carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting meal option.

Fats

This recipe contains about 18 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being the butter, sour cream, and cheese. Using low-fat versions of these ingredients can significantly reduce the fat content without compromising the creamy texture and rich flavor of the soup.

Proteins

Each serving of Baked Potato Soup offers around 15 grams of protein, thanks to the milk, cheese, and bacon. The cheese and milk are excellent sources of high-quality protein, while the bacon adds a smoky flavor and additional protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Baked Potato Soup is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the potatoes, calcium and Vitamin D from the milk, and phosphorus from the cheese. The green onions and dill also provide small amounts of Vitamin K and other micronutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, sour cream, cheese) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. It also contains gluten in the bacon, depending on the brand used.

Summary

Baked Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. By making simple substitutions, it can be adapted to fit various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Baked Potato Soup is a versatile, comforting dish that combines the simple goodness of baked potatoes with rich, savory toppings. With options for customization and make-ahead convenience, it's a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

. It was a chilly autumn day and I had just come home from a long day of work. As I walked through the door, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of soup simmering on the stove. My grandmother was standing over the pot, stirring the contents with a look of concentration on her face.

"The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe," my grandmother began, her voice soft and nostalgic. "I had just moved to a new neighborhood and was feeling a bit lonely. I decided to join a local cooking club in hopes of making some new friends."

She went on to explain how the club met once a week, with each member taking turns choosing a recipe to prepare and share with the group. One week, it was my grandmother's turn to choose, and she decided to make baked potato soup. She had never made it before, but she was determined to give it a try.

"I remember reading through the recipe, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the long list of ingredients and steps," my grandmother recalled. "But I didn't let that discourage me. I rolled up my sleeves, put on my apron, and got to work."

She described how she carefully washed and baked the potatoes until they were tender, then peeled and mashed them to create a creamy base for the soup. She sautéed onions and garlic in butter, added in chicken broth and milk, and let the mixture simmer until it was thick and flavorful. Finally, she stirred in shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped chives to finish off the dish.

"As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I was amazed by how delicious it was," my grandmother said with a smile. "The flavors were rich and comforting, reminding me of home and family. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen."

Over the years, my grandmother continued to perfect her baked potato soup recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit her taste. She added in extra herbs and spices, experimented with different types of cheese, and even tried incorporating toppings like sour cream and green onions. Each time she made the soup, it brought back memories of that fateful day in the cooking club and the sense of camaraderie she had felt with her fellow members.

"As I grew older and my family expanded, I passed down the recipe for baked potato soup to my children and grandchildren," my grandmother said, her eyes twinkling with pride. "It became a beloved tradition in our household, a dish that we would make together on cold winter nights or special occasions. And every time we sat down to eat it, we would share stories about where the recipe came from and how it had brought us all closer together."

As my grandmother finished recounting her tale, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the culinary legacy she had passed down to me. The recipe for baked potato soup was not just a dish to be enjoyed, but a connection to my family's past and the memories we had created together. And as I sat down to savor a steaming bowl of soup, I knew that my grandmother's love and care would always be present in every spoonful.