This hearty and creamy baked potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something warm and filling.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, baked and peeled
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Chop the baked potatoes into chunks and add them to the pot. Mash some of the potatoes for a thicker texture, leaving chunks for bite.
6. Stir in the cheese, sour cream, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy bacon and green onions.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 375 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 3g

Flavor Profile and Texture

Baked potato soup offers a rich and satisfying flavor, combining creamy, savory, and smoky elements in every spoonful. The base is velvety and thick, with tender potato chunks adding body, while ingredients like bacon and cheddar cheese lend a deep umami undertone. Sour cream and milk create a smooth texture that’s both comforting and indulgent, making each bite a warming experience, especially in cold weather.

Ideal Occasions to Serve

This soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, fall and winter gatherings, potlucks, or game day meals. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own as a main course but also fits beautifully as a starter. Its universal appeal makes it suitable for casual get-togethers or festive holiday menus alike.

Customization Options

Baked potato soup is highly customizable. You can adjust the richness by using heavy cream instead of milk or make it lighter with low-fat dairy options. For added nutrition, mix in vegetables like broccoli or spinach. Toppings like chives, extra cheese, sour cream, or even jalapeños allow for personal flair in presentation and flavor.

Common Substitutions

If you’re out of russet potatoes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great alternatives. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a protein boost. For vegetarians, skip the bacon and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to retain a smoky depth. Chicken broth can also be replaced with vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. It also pairs well with classic American sides like grilled cheese sandwiches or baked rolls. For a more elevated meal, add a protein side such as grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

Storage Tips

Baked potato soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat to maintain its creamy texture. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth. Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly due to dairy separation.

Reheating Advice

To reheat, place the soup in a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until hot. Avoid boiling as this can cause the dairy to curdle. If using a microwave, reheat in intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Texture Enhancements

For those who enjoy added texture, top the soup with toasted breadcrumbs, crispy onions, or roasted chickpeas. These elements introduce crunch and contrast to the creamy soup, enhancing the overall eating experience.

Nutritional Highlights

While baked potato soup is indulgent, it also offers nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of potassium and fiber, while dairy contributes calcium and protein. Adding vegetables or using low-fat options can improve its nutritional profile without sacrificing taste.

Portion Control

Since this soup is rich and hearty, consider serving it in smaller portions alongside lighter sides if you’re watching calorie intake. Using a measuring ladle when serving can help manage portions more effectively, especially when feeding guests.

Cultural Popularity

Baked potato soup is a staple in American comfort food cuisine, often featured in diners and homestyle restaurants. Its widespread popularity stems from its nostalgic flavors and easy adaptability to different dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients.

Kid-Friendly Appeal

With its mild flavors and creamy texture, this soup is usually a hit with children. You can further appeal to younger eaters by offering fun toppings like shredded cheese, mini croutons, or crumbled bacon they can sprinkle themselves.

Gluten-Free Considerations

To make this soup gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour to thicken the base. Always double-check broth labels for hidden gluten ingredients. This small change can make the dish accessible to more people.

Dairy-Free Adaptations

For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based milk like almond or oat and use a dairy-free sour cream and cheese. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy. This allows the soup to be enjoyed by those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Vegan Version Possibility

With thoughtful substitutions, baked potato soup can be made completely vegan. Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon, use vegetable broth, and opt for dairy-free milk and cheese. The result remains creamy and flavorful with a plant-based twist.

Budget-Friendly Meal

This recipe uses affordable, everyday ingredients like potatoes, onions, and milk, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious households. It stretches well across multiple servings, making it ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd without overspending.

Meal Prep Friendly

Baked potato soup is a fantastic meal prep option. It can be made in large batches and stored in single-serving containers for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. It also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Restaurant-Quality at Home

With minimal effort and basic kitchen tools, you can recreate a dish that rivals any restaurant version. Using fresh ingredients, quality cheese, and seasoning well are the keys to achieving rich, authentic flavor at home.

Toppings to Elevate the Dish

Toppings can transform the soup into a visually appealing and flavor-packed dish. Try adding caramelized onions, crumbled blue cheese, diced avocado, or a dash of hot sauce. Layering toppings enhances both presentation and taste complexity.

Conclusion

Baked potato soup is more than just a comforting classic—it’s a versatile, customizable, and nourishing dish that fits into a wide variety of lifestyles and occasions. Whether you’re serving a crowd or prepping for the week ahead, it’s easy to adapt to dietary needs, flavor preferences, and seasonal ingredients. Its creamy richness, simple preparation, and endless topping possibilities make it a favorite in homes and kitchens across the world.