Easy Baked Potato Soup
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Easy Baked Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of a baked potato to your bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings!
This Easy Baked Potato Soup is a family favorite that combines the classic flavors of baked potatoes with creamy goodness. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Perfect for Chilly Nights
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a cold evening. Easy Baked Potato Soup captures the essence of a baked potato, transforming it into a creamy, satisfying dish. As the temperature drops, this soup becomes the perfect meal to warm you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.
The rich flavors of the potatoes combined with the creaminess of the heavy cream create a delightful harmony that is sure to please everyone at the table. Each spoonful brings the nostalgic taste of a baked potato, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
Quick and Simple Preparation
In today's fast-paced world, having quick and easy recipes on hand is essential. This Easy Baked Potato Soup requires minimal preparation and uses ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. With just a few steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour, which is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
The straightforward cooking process allows you to focus on what really matters—spending time with your loved ones. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze, making this dish not only delicious but also practical for everyday cooking.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best aspects of this Easy Baked Potato Soup is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. If you're looking to make it vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For additional flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
You can also enhance the soup by incorporating toppings like crispy bacon, sour cream, or even sautéed mushrooms. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique dish every time you make it, ensuring that it never gets boring.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Cook the Potatoes
In a large pot, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and additional cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting baked potato soup!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, you're in luck! This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can be frozen for up to three months. However, it's best to leave out the heavy cream and cheese if you're planning to freeze it. You can add these ingredients back in when you're ready to serve, ensuring the soup retains its creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Baked Potato Soup is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A warm, crusty bread or a simple side salad can complement the rich flavors of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal. Consider a classic Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
For a heartier option, you can serve the soup with grilled cheese sandwiches or quesadillas. These options not only add substance to your meal but also make it even more comforting, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something truly satisfying.
Health Benefits
While this soup is indulgent, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. When combined with the protein from the cheese and the nutrients from the onions and garlic, this soup can be a wholesome meal option.
Furthermore, by controlling the ingredients and portion sizes, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup without the guilt. Adjusting the cream and cheese content can help you tailor the dish to fit your dietary goals while still enjoying all the rich flavors you love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
→ Can I freeze baked potato soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the cream and cheese when freezing. Add them in when reheating.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this soup is naturally gluten-free.
Easy Baked Potato Soup
Easy Baked Potato Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of a baked potato to your bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Created by: Chloe Sullivan
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, combine the diced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and additional cheese if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 8g