Baked Potato Soup: The Perfect Comfort Dish for Cold Nights

Nothing beats the cozy, creamy goodness of a hearty bowl of baked potato soup. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something rich and satisfying, this classic dish has all the flavors that make you feel at home.

Think of it as a baked potato in soup form—warm, indulgent, and topped with all your favorite fixings. Let’s explore how you can make this creamy delight in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, here’s a simple list of the ingredients that will create this mouthwatering soup:

• Potatoes (6-8 medium-sized) – The star of the show! Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because of their starchy, fluffy texture when cooked.
• 1 medium onion – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic – For that aromatic base flavor.
• 4 tablespoons butter – This creates a rich, silky soup base.
• 1/4 cup flour – To thicken the soup and give it that creamy consistency.
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)—This liquid cooks everything and brings the soup together.
• 2 cups whole milk – For that smooth, creamy texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Optional, but it makes the soup extra decadent.
• Salt and pepper – The classic seasoning combo.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a subtle herbal note.
• Optional toppings: Cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, green onions, fresh parsley.

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready let’s cook!

How to Make Baked Potato Soup: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Russets are the best because their starch gives the soup a creamy texture when mashed. You can leave the skins on for added texture and nutrition if you like.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This is when your soup starts to smell incredible.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Next, add the flour to the pot and stir it for about 2 minutes. This is called making a roux, which will help thicken the soup. The goal is to cook out the flour’s raw taste without browning it too much.

Step 4: Add the Liquid

Slowly pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth while stirring, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add the milk and bring the soup to a simmer.

If you want extra richness, add the heavy cream now. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 5-10 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and let them cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. This is when you’ll begin to see the magic happen. The potatoes will soften and break apart, naturally thickening the soup.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are soft, you can use a potato masher to break them up in the soup for a chunkier texture or use an immersion blender to make it smooth.

It’s up to you! If you like a creamy soup with bits of potato, mash lightly. If you prefer it velvety smooth, blend it until it’s perfect.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Now it’s time to season your soup! Add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. The soup will continue to thicken as it sits, so you may need to adjust the consistency with a little extra broth or milk.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once you’ve got the seasoning right and the soup has the right consistency, it’s time to dish it up! Pour it into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

I love a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and green onions. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can add some crispy bacon crumbles, too.

Optional Variations

Vegan/Vegetarian Baked Potato Soup: For a meatless version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat), and leave out the heavy cream or substitute with a plant-based cream. You can still enjoy the creamy goodness!

Spicy Twist: Want to add a little heat? Stir in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding diced carrots, celery, or spinach. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic in the beginning.

Toppings & Garnishes

The beauty of baked potato soup is in the toppings. Here are a few crowd-pleasers:

• Cheddar cheese – A must for that melty, cheesy goodness.
• Sour cream – Adds a nice tang that balances the soup’s richness.
• Bacon bits – For that crunchy, smoky flavor (or use plant-based bacon).
• Green onions – Fresh, bright, and just the right amount of crunch.
• Fresh herbs – Chives, parsley, or thyme to bring in a fresh, aromatic element.

Serving Suggestions

Baked potato soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bread or a light salad. Consider a side of garlic bread or some fresh rolls if you’re serving it for a family dinner.

The soup’s creamy texture and rich flavor make it the perfect dish to serve with something crunchy or refreshing on the side.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This soup stores really well, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch! You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just be aware that the soup will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add some milk or broth when reheating.

To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

Healthier Modifications

If you’re looking to make this a bit lighter, there are a few tweaks you can make:

• Low-fat milk: Use skim or 2% milk instead of whole milk.
• Light cream: Use light or half-and-half cream instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-free: Swap the flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! While russet potatoes are best for their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon Golds or red potatoes. They won’t break down as much, so the texture might differ slightly.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting for a day. Just be sure to store it properly and reheat slowly to avoid the soup becoming too thick.

Q: How can I make this soup spicier?

When you add the seasonings, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Adjust to your desired heat level!

Baked potato soup is all about comfort, simplicity, and bringing a bit of warmth into your day. Whether you want something to enjoy on a cold night or need a filling and flavorful soup, this recipe will become your go-to. Happy cooking and even happier eating!