When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and satisfying, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of baked potato soup.

This comforting classic is the perfect way to indulge in creamy, savory goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. With this easy baked potato soup recipe, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the world of this soul-warming soup and learn how you can whip it up effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love Easy Baked Potato Soup

Baked potato soup is a timeless favorite for good reason. It combines the rich, creamy texture of potatoes with the smoky flavor of bacon, the sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the freshness of green onions. This easy version takes all the best flavors of a loaded baked potato and transforms them into a spoonable delight.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Quick and Simple: No need for complicated steps or fancy equipment.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like potatoes, milk, and cheese.
Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this easy baked potato soup, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen:

4 large russet potatoes (baked or microwaved)
4 slices of bacon (crispy and crumbled)
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk (whole milk or 2% for creaminess)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: Chopped green onions, extra cheese, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of sour cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake or Microwave the Potatoes

Start by baking your potatoes until soft. If you’re short on time, you can microwave them instead. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before peeling off the skins. Mash the potatoes lightly with a fork or leave them chunky for added texture.

2. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot for extra flavor.

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add butter to the pot with the reserved bacon grease. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add Broth and Potatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the mashed potatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in Milk and Cheese

Lower the heat and slowly stir in the milk, followed by shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

6. Add Sour Cream and Seasonings

Stir in the sour cream to give the soup an extra layer of richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency by adding more broth or milk if needed.

7. Serve with Toppings

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—crumbled bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Baked Potato Soup

Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture makes them ideal for creating a creamy soup base.
Don’t Overblend: If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender sparingly to avoid turning it gummy.
Make It Lighter: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, toss in some diced carrots or celery while sautéing the onions.

FAQs About Easy Baked Potato Soup

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.

2. Can I freeze baked potato soup?

Yes, but keep in mind that soups with dairy can sometimes separate when frozen. To avoid this, freeze the soup before adding milk or sour cream, then stir them in after reheating.

3. What can I serve with baked potato soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.

4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.

5. How can I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup is thinner than you’d like, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering soup until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Easy baked potato soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter evening or serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and endless customization options, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. So grab your potatoes and get cooking—deliciousness awaits!