Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with the most decadent, creamy, and soul-warming Hearty Baked Potato Soup you've ever tasted! Imagine diving your spoon into a velvety, cheese-laden soup packed with tender potato chunks that practically melt in your mouth. This isn't just another soup recipe – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends begging for seconds (and asking for the recipe)!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, baked and diced
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 4 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash potatoes thoroughly and pierce with a fork several times. Bake potatoes directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove potatoes from oven and let cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, cut potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh, dicing into bite-sized chunks. Set aside.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, being careful not to brown the mixture.
- Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add the diced potato chunks. Stir gently to incorporate potatoes into the creamy base.
- Sprinkle in shredded cheese and stir until completely melted and integrated into the soup.
- Stir in sour cream, which will add richness and a slight tanginess to the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add additional toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or extra cheese.
- Simmer on low heat for an additional 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnished with your preferred toppings. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps create a creamy texture.
- Bake potatoes whole: Baking instead of boiling preserves more flavor and gives a richer potato taste.
- Whisk the roux carefully: When making the butter and flour base, constant whisking prevents lumps and ensures a smooth soup.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly incorporating milk prevents separation and helps create a silky-smooth consistency.
- Don't rush the simmering: The 10-minute final simmer allows flavors to develop and meld together perfectly.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with crispy bacon, green onions, extra cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to personalize your soup.
- Avoid overheating: Keep the heat low after adding cheese and sour cream to prevent curdling.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
