If you’re in the mood for a cozy and filling dish, nothing beats a warm bowl of baked potato soup. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of a hearty potato soup, topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions. This easy 30-minute baked potato soup recipe is perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal that tastes just like your favorite restaurant-style loaded potato soup.
Whether you’re reminiscing about the comfort food served at your favorite restaurant, like Outback Potato Soup, or you’re looking to recreate the creamy goodness of scalloped potatoes in soup form, this recipe is for you. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of the best potato soup you’ve ever made—loaded with all your favorite toppings and made in just half an hour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a rich, flavorful soup that’s sure to impress.
- 4 large russet potatoes – The foundation of your soup. Russets work best because they are starchy and yield that perfect creamy texture.
- 4 slices of bacon – A must for the classic bacon cheddar flavor that elevates this soup to the next level.
- 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a nice depth of flavor to the base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that aromatic kick.
- 4 cups chicken broth – You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the soup wonderfully creamy and indulgent.
- 1 cup milk – To balance out the creaminess.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – The key to a loaded potato soup.
- 1 teaspoon salt – To taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – To taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Optional, but adds a wonderful herbal flavor.
- Green onions, chopped – For garnish.
- Crusty bread, for serving – You’ll want something to dip into your soup!
With these ingredients, you can make a simple yet satisfying baked potato soup that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Start by preparing your russet potatoes. Wash them thoroughly and prick them with a fork. For an extra step that’ll add flavor, you can bake the potatoes in the oven for about 40 minutes at 400°F until tender. Alternatively, for quicker preparation, you can microwave the potatoes for about 10 minutes or until they are soft.
Once the potatoes are cooked, cut them into cubes. If you’ve baked them, you can peel the skin off or leave it on, depending on your preference. The skin adds texture and flavor, but it’s entirely up to you!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Crumble the bacon into small pieces once it cools down. You’ll want to save some for topping the soup later!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, using the bacon drippings, sauté the diced onion for about 3 minutes or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
This step is essential as the bacon drippings add a savory depth of flavor to the soup. If you prefer a healthier version, you can sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil instead of bacon fat.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Potatoes
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Stir everything to combine. Add the cubed potatoes and let them simmer in the broth for about 5 minutes. The potatoes will absorb the delicious flavors of the broth, creating a great base for the soup.
Step 5: Cream It Up
Once the potatoes have softened, add in the heavy cream and milk. Stir well to combine. You’ll notice that the soup starts to get thicker and creamier. Bring it to a gentle simmer, and allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash or puree some of the potatoes. This will make the soup even creamier and thicker, without losing the heartiness of the potatoes.
Step 6: Add Cheese, Seasonings, and Bacon
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme (if using). The cheese will melt into the soup, adding a rich and gooey texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Now, add most of the crumbled bacon, saving a few pieces for garnish. This is where the loaded potato soup magic happens, as the crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy soup.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well-combined and the soup is hot and bubbling, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. For an extra indulgence, serve your soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The combination of creamy soup and crunchy bread is simply irresistible!
Tips for the Best Baked Potato Soup
- Add extra toppings – Want to take your soup to the next level? Add some sour cream, additional cheese, or even a handful of chopped herbs like parsley or chives.
- Make it vegetarian – If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can still add all the cheese and toppings for a delicious meat-free meal.
- Use different cheeses – While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Make it ahead of time – This soup actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later – If you have leftovers, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop and add a bit more milk or cream to bring it back to its creamy consistency.
Why This Baked Potato Soup is the Best
This easy 30-minute baked potato soup is not only quick and simple but also loaded with flavor. It’s the perfect dish for a chilly evening, whether you’re having a casual dinner at home or serving a crowd. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese makes this soup a winner every time.
If you’re craving the taste of Outback Potato Soup, this recipe is a fantastic homemade version. You’ll get the same rich and creamy base, topped with all your favorite loaded potato ingredients, without having to leave the house. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Conclusion
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of baked potato soup, especially when it’s topped with bacon cheddar goodness. This easy 30-minute recipe lets you recreate that restaurant-quality soup from home with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of loaded potato soup, scalloped potatoes, or simply crave a deliciously creamy potato soup recipe, this dish is sure to hit the spot.
Don’t forget to serve it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping and enjoy this bowl of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or friends, this best potato soup recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
