Introduction
Baked Potato Soup combines the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals with the satisfying richness of creamy soup and sharp cheddar cheese. Ideal for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe features a blend of tender russet potatoes, hearty turkey bacon, and a velvety cheese sauce, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Below, we delve into the intricacies of creating this classic dish, offering step-by-step guidance to ensure a perfect batch every time.
Ingredients with Quantities
- Russet potatoes: 4 large
- Turkey bacon: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
- Chicken broth: 4 cups
- Whole milk: 2 cups
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Green onions: 1/4 cup, sliced
Direction and Preparation Method
- Baking the Potatoes: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Prick the russet potatoes with a fork and place them directly on the oven rack. Bake for about 45 minutes or until they are tender. Once done, let them cool, then peel and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Preparing the Turkey Bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat.
- Making the Roux: In the same pot used for the bacon, melt the unsalted butter. Add the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about one minute to create a roux. This mixture will help thicken your soup.
- Adding Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the whole milk to the roux. It’s crucial to add these slowly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook the mixture until it thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Combining Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Finishing Touches: Stir in the sour cream until well incorporated. Remove the pot from the heat and mix in most of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for garnish.
- Serving: Serve the soup hot. Garnish each bowl with crispy turkey bacon, a sprinkle of reserved cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
- Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon? Yes, regular bacon can be used as a substitute for turkey bacon. It will add a richer, more traditional flavor to the soup.
- Is there a dairy-free version of this soup? For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk, and omit the sour cream and cheese, or use suitable vegan substitutes.
- How can I make this soup vegetarian? Omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep this dish vegetarian without sacrificing the rich flavors.
- What are the best toppings for baked potato soup? Popular toppings include crispy bacon or turkey bacon, sour cream, chives, green onions, extra cheese, and even a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Can I freeze baked potato soup? This soup can be frozen, but it may separate slightly when reheated. For best results, store in an airtight container and reheat slowly while stirring often to maintain a creamy texture.
Conclusion
Baked Potato Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a bowl full of memories and comfort. Perfect for any day of the week, this soup is both fulfilling and delicious. With the versatility to adjust ingredients to meet dietary needs or personal tastes, this soup can easily become a household staple. Whether you’re wrapping up a long day or gathering around the table with family, Baked Potato Soup promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
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