Whip Up a Bowl of Southern Comfort with This Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Y’all, gather ‘round! If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the world of homemade baked potato soup, a dish that’s as comforting as a Sunday afternoon on the porch. This recipe is simple and guaranteed to have your family and friends asking for seconds. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cookin’!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful soup:

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 1 cup of sour cream

• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup of chopped green onions

• 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth

• 1/2 cup of heavy cream

• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

Now that we’ve got our ingredients, let’s get to the fun part!

Step 1: Prep Those Potatoes

First things first, we need to get those potatoes ready. Start by giving them a good scrub under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, poke a few holes in each potato with a fork. This helps steam escape while they bake.

Freshly scrubbed russet potatoes ready for baking

Wrap each potato in aluminum foil and pop them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they’re tender. A perfectly baked potato will yield easily when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Let’s Get Cookin’!

While those potatoes are baking, let’s prepare our broth. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

For added flavor, you can toss in a couple of garlic cloves or a bay leaf while the broth simmers. Just remember to remove them before serving! A little bit of freshly grated black pepper can also enhance the flavor profile of the broth.

Step 3: Mash It Up

Once your potatoes are done, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. After unwrapping, chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Here’s where the magic happens! Add the chopped potatoes to your simmering broth. Use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. This gives your soup that creamy texture we all love, while still leaving some chunks for that hearty feel. About half of your potatoes should be mashed to achieve the best blend of creaminess and texture.

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Next up, it’s time to add the heavy cream and sour cream. Stir until well-combined. This is where your soup transforms into a creamy dream!

Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a little taste test—if it needs a pinch more salt, now's the time to add it. Studies show that seasoning can enhance the flavor of your dish by as much as 30%, so don’t skip this important step!

A steaming bowl of baked potato soup topped with cheese and green onions

Step 5: Top It Off

Now, let’s make this soup look as good as it tastes! Serve it in bowls and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Don’t skimp on the cheese—about 1/4 cup per bowl is perfect.

Add a handful of chopped green onions for that fresh kick. If you’re feelin’ extra fancy, top with crispy bacon bits or a dollop of extra sour cream. These additions not only enhance flavor but also elevate the dish visually.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Now that your soup is all dressed up, it’s time to dig in! Serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side. You can also pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal. Watch as your loved ones gather ‘round the table, ready to savor every last drop.

A rustic table set with bowls of baked potato soup and crusty bread

Time to Dig In

And there you have it, folks! A simple, delicious, and oh-so-comforting baked potato soup that’ll warm your heart and fill your belly. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights or whenever you crave a little taste of home.

Gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of Southern comfort that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Happy cookin’, y’all!