A creamy, cheesy soup loaded with all the classic baked potato toppings like bacon, cheddar, and green onions. This comforting bowl is perfect for cold days.
15 min prep
35 min cook
6 servings
520 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), scrubbed and pierced
6 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake potatoes directly on oven rack for 50-60 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly, then peel and coarsely mash with a fork. Set aside.
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate; reserve 2 tablespoons drippings in pot.
Add onion to drippings and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
Sprinkle flour over onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring often.
Add mashed potatoes, 1 cup cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. Simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Ladle soup into bowls. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Serve hot.
Tips
For a thicker soup, mash potatoes more coarsely; for thinner, mash until smooth.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed.
To make it vegetarian, omit bacon and use vegetable broth; sauté onions in butter or oil instead of bacon drippings.