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Baked Potato Soup

Baked Potato Soup

This Baked Potato Soup is everything you love about a loaded baked potato — in a warm, silky bowl of comfort. Made with tender russet potatoes, crispy bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and a touch of sour cream, it’s hearty, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Best of all, it comes together in under an hour with simple ingredients you likely already have!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled & cubed

  • ¾ teaspoon salt

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 1 large yellow onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • ¼ cup flour

  • 3 ½ cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups half-and-half

  • ¾ cup sour cream

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • ⅛ cup finely diced chives

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Bacon

Cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and cook over low heat in a large pot until crispy.
Remove and set aside. Leave 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.

2️⃣ Cook the Potatoes

Place peeled, cubed potatoes in a separate pot. Cover with water by 1 inch and add salt.
Boil 20 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and gently mash; set aside.

3️⃣ Build the Soup Base

Add onion to the bacon drippings and cook 5 minutes, until softened.
Add garlic and butter; cook 1 minute.
Whisk in flour and cook 1 full minute to remove raw flour taste.

Pour in chicken broth while scraping up flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
Slowly add half-and-half. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.

4️⃣ Make It Loaded

Stir in potatoes, sour cream, and pepper.
Remove from heat and blend with an immersion blender if you want a smoother consistency.

Gradually add shredded cheddar, stirring until melted and creamy.
→ If soup is too hot, cheese may become grainy, so add slowly.

5️⃣ Finish & Serve

Top with crispy bacon and fresh chives. Enjoy immediately!

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese — pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting.

  • Soup too thick? Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen.

  • Soup too thin? Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

  • Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note!