Recipes

Baked Potato Soup: The Indulgent Creamy Delight with Turkey Bacon

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Sophie B

Friday, October 31, 2025 10:09 pm

Why Baked Potato Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food

When you’re in need of cozy comfort, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of baked potato soup to wrap you in a hug of flavor and heartiness. This dish not only warms your body, but also warms your soul, providing that nostalgic feeling of home. The creamy texture, combined with just the right amount of seasoning, creates an irresistible experience in every spoonful.

Imagine coming home after a long day at work, the chill of the evening air nipping at your skin. You crave something hearty yet simple. That’s where baked potato soup shines! It’s a fantastic way to use those leftover baked potatoes you might have. As noted by Healthline, potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a great base for a nourishing soup.

The Perfect Blend of Ingredients

One of the best things about baked potato soup is how easily you can customize it to fit your taste. It starts with the fundamental ingredients:

Baked potatoes (of course!)
Chicken broth for a savory depth
Cream or a non-dairy alternative for that luscious texture
Turkey bacon for a crispy touch
Toppings like shredded cheese and chives for extra flavor

By mixing in chicken ham or even your favorite vegetables, you can make this soup your own. Recipe variations are broad! Plus, if you’re looking for a plant-based version, using vegetable broth and coconut cream can be delicious alternatives.

A Meal for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a chilly evening in or a gathering with friends, baked potato soup is versatile enough for any occasion. For those who love entertaining, consider it as a starter for a dinner party or serve it with a side salad for a casual night in.

You might be surprised to know that many chefs appreciate the simplicity of this dish. As a featured contributor for The Kitchn, Chef Emily outlines how this comforting delight can be both gourmet and homey.

So, if you’re ready to dive into this comforting delight, grab your favorite bowl and think about how you can make this recipe uniquely yours! Your future self will thank you for the warm embrace of a great meal on those chilly days.

Ingredients for Baked Potato Soup

When it comes to a cozy, comforting dish, baked potato soup is a crowd favorite! It’s creamy, hearty, and sure to warm your soul on chilly days. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious bowl of goodness:

Essential Ingredients

Potatoes: 4 large Russet potatoes, which add that creamy texture we all love.
Chicken Broth: About 4 cups, to create a savory base—feel free to go low-sodium for a healthier option.
Turkey Bacon: 4-5 slices, providing that crispy, smoky element; it’s a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Chicken Ham: About 1 cup, diced for a bit of extra protein.
Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped for a sweet, aromatic base.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Just the right amount to elevate the flavors!
Cream: 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for richness.
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded, because what’s baked potato soup without cheese?
Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for rounding out the dish.

For tips on selecting the best baked potato soup ingredients, check out this guide on potato varieties. Happy cooking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Baked Potato Soup

Making a comforting bowl of baked potato soup isn’t just satisfying; it’s also a fun way to spend your cooking time. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process. This ensures you won’t be scrambling mid-recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 large russet potatoes
4 slices of turkey bacon
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of chicken broth
1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped green onions and sour cream for garnish

Pro tip: If you’re not sure how to chop an onion without crying, check out this helpful guide.

Cook the Turkey Bacon

Let’s kick things off with the turkey bacon. Cook it in a large pot over medium heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Remove the turkey bacon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once you’ve let it cool, crumble it into small pieces. This will add a delightful crunch to your soup!

Prepare the Potatoes

While your bacon is cooking, wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly. Russets are preferred for their fluffy texture once baked. Pierce each potato multiple times with a fork (to avoid any explosions!) and then bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-60 minutes, until they’re tender. Alternatively, you could microwave them for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just ensure they are fork-tender!

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In the same pot used for the turkey bacon, add your chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them on medium heat. Stir occasionally for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavor for your baked potato soup.

Create the Soup Base

Once your onions and garlic are sautéed, it’s time to create the base of the soup. Pour in your 4 cups of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. As the broth heats up, you can smash or chop up the baked potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture. Stir the potatoes into the broth, let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes, and make sure those flavors meld beautifully.

Combine Ingredients for Creaminess

Now, for that creamy touch! Lower the heat and stir in your heavy cream (or half-and-half if you’re looking for a lighter option). Season with salt and pepper. At this stage, taste it to see if it needs more seasoning or creaminess. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to add more cream.

Blend for a Smooth Texture

For a restaurant-quality baked potato soup, blending is essential. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for a smooth texture, or transfer portions to a regular blender, being careful not to fill it too full (hot soup can splatter!). Blend until you achieve your desired consistency—chunky or smooth?

Add the Cheese and Garnish

Finally, stir in a generous cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated. This step elevates your soup to cheesy perfection. Serve your baked potato soup garnished with the crispy turkey bacon, freshly chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Enjoy this delightful soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Bon appétit!

Now that you’re prepared to whip up this creamy delight, why not try tweaking the recipe? Whether you add new spices or experiment with different toppings, the possibilities are endless! Happy cooking!

Delicious Variations of Baked Potato Soup

Baked potato soup is a cozy, comforting dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. Let’s dive into some delicious variations that might just become your new favorites!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Add-Ins

If you’re a fan of loaded baked potatoes, why not bring that excitement to your soup? Start with your basic baked potato soup recipe, then enhance it with these tasty add-ins:

Turkey Bacon: Crispy turkey bacon pieces add a delightful crunch and salty flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar offers rich creaminess.
Chives or Green Onions: These fresh toppings add a pop of color and flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tanginess and helps balance the flavors.
Broccoli: For a healthy twist, add steamed broccoli florets for color and nutrition.

Mix and match these ingredients for a personalized experience! It’s a great way to make a simple dish feel special and unique.

Vegan Baked Potato Soup Alternative

For those following a plant-based diet, this vegan alternative ensures everyone can enjoy the comforting goodness of baked potato soup. Here’s how to make it:

Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream to achieve that creamy texture without dairy.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a full-bodied flavor.
Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Toss in your favorite veggies, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added nutrition and texture.

Feeling adventurous? Try some recipes from trusted sites like Minimalist Baker or Forks Over Knives for inspiration.

Elevating your baked potato soup can make all the difference, turning a simple recipe into a delightful meal. Don’t hesitate to explore and find the combination that resonates with your taste buds!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Perfect Baked Potato Soup

Choosing the Right Potatoes

When it comes to making the perfect baked potato soup, your choice of potatoes is essential. Opt for russets; their starchy texture breaks down beautifully when cooked, resulting in a silky-smooth consistency. Waxy potatoes, like red or new potatoes, hold their shape better and aren’t ideal for this creamy dish. For more in-depth information about potato varieties, check out this guide from the USDA.

Tips for Creamy Consistency

To achieve that velvety richness in your baked potato soup, here are my top tips:

Mash It Right: Use a potato masher or a hand mixer to blend the potatoes. A smooth texture makes all the difference!
Dairy Matters: Incorporate whole milk or cream for added richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, unsweetened almond or oat milk can work surprisingly well.
Thickening Agent: For an extra creamy finish, whisk in a bit of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water. This ensures your soup won’t be too runny.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your friends and family with a hearty bowl of baked potato soup!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Potato Soup

Best Accompaniments

Pairing your baked potato soup with the right sides can elevate your meal from comforting to truly delightful. Here are some tasty options to consider:

Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad, drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette, adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: This classic duo not only complements the soup’s richness but also provides that satisfying crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can introduce new textures and flavors, making each spoonful of baked potato soup even more enjoyable.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

To turn your baked potato soup into a full, hearty meal, why not consider these pairings?

Turkey Bacon: Crumbled on top of your soup, it adds a smoky and savory depth that’s hard to resist.
Chicken Ham Sliders: These mini sandwiches, filled with melted cheese, are perfect for dipping and can turn your lunch into a gourmet experience.
Herbal Tea or Sparkling Water: Both beverages refresh your palate without overpowering the flavors of your meal.

For more ideas on sides and salads, check out Healthline’s guide on healthy eating options, which can inspire your meal planning!

Time Breakdown for Baked Potato Soup

Prep Time

Getting started with your baked potato soup is a breeze. You’ll need about 15 minutes to chop your ingredients, prepare the potatoes, and gather everything you need. Trust me, being organized upfront makes all the difference!

Cooking Time

Once you dive into cooking, plan for roughly 40 minutes. Most of this time will go to simmering those creamy potatoes to perfection. This stage truly allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you keep an eye on that comfort food magic happening on the stove.

Total Time

All in all, you’re looking at a 55-minute commitment to a delightful and hearty bowl of soup. It’s worth it—especially when you can enjoy your baked potato soup after a long day. Plus, this meal is perfect for prepping in advance; it holds up well in the fridge for a few days! For some handy tips on storing and reheating, check out the USDA’s food safety guidelines.

Now, aren’t you excited to dig in? Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Baked Potato Soup

Calories and Macronutrients

When you whip up a comforting bowl of baked potato soup, it’s good to know what you’re fueling your body with. A typical serving of this rich soup contains around 250 calories. The macronutrient breakdown is as follows:

Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g, mostly from the potatoes, providing a great source of energy.
Protein: Roughly 6g, especially if you’re adding ingredients like chicken ham or turkey bacon for extra flavor.
Fats: About 10g, depending on whether you use butter or cream, which contributes to its creamy texture.

Vitamins and Minerals

Beyond the satisfying taste, baked potato soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin C: Found in potatoes and any added vegetables, helps boost your immune system.
Vitamin B6: Important for brain health and metabolism, thanks to the potatoes.
Potassium: Helps maintain blood pressure, also abundant in this cozy dish.

For a deeper dive into the nutritional benefits of potatoes, check out the USDA’s FoodData Central for more detailed data. So, the next time you enjoy a hearty bowl, you can savor it knowing you’re nourishing your body too!

FAQs about Baked Potato Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Baked potato soup is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the soup a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving—adding a splash of chicken broth or milk can help regain the original creaminess. Remember to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to enjoy!

How can I store leftover soup?

Leftover baked potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to save it for a longer period, consider freezing it! Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for about three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What are the best toppings for baked potato soup?

Toppings can elevate your baked potato soup to a whole new level! Here are some popular choices:

Turkey bacon: Crispy and flavorful, it adds a nice crunch.
Chicken ham: For a smoky twist, diced chicken ham is a fantastic option.
Cheddar cheese: Melty, gooey goodness that enhances every bite.
Green onions: Fresh and zesty, they provide a pop of color and flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop adds creaminess and tang.

Feel free to get creative! Adding your favorite toppings can transform this soup into a hearty meal. If you’re interested in more nutritional insights, check out resources like Healthline for expert advice. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Conclusion on Baked Potato Soup

Why You Need to Try This Recipe

If you haven’t yet experienced the comforting delight of baked potato soup, you’re in for a treat! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite toppings like Turkey Bacon, Chicken Ham, or even cheddar cheese. Imagine curling up with a warm bowl on a chilly evening; it’s the perfect comfort food that requires minimal effort.

Beyond its rich flavors, making this soup is a chance to practice your culinary skills while enjoying the process. Give it a try! You might just find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again. For more inspiration, check out the benefits of homemade soups here.