Warm up your soul with a bowl of creamy, indulgent Healthy Baked Potato Soup that’s as comforting as it is nutritious! Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this delightful recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can easily whip up this American classic that’s loaded with flavor and goodness. Ready to discover how to make this velvety soup that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
- 1 cup shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Wash potatoes thoroughly and pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place whole potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes until they are soft and easily pierced with a knife. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- While potatoes are baking, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-60 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cut baked potatoes in half and scoop out the soft interior, reserving the potato flesh. Discard or save potato skins for another use.
- Add potato flesh to the pot with onions and garlic. Pour in vegetable broth and milk, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. Alternatively, mash some potatoes with a potato masher.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and shredded cheese, mixing until well incorporated and cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If soup is too thick, add additional broth or milk to reach desired consistency.
- Simmer the soup on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped chives, additional cheese, or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for large russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. They are perfect for baking and mashing, ensuring your soup is creamy and delicious.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow the potatoes to bake until they’re soft and easily pierced with a knife. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy consistency in your soup.
- Sauté with Care: When cooking the onions and garlic, keep an eye on them to avoid burning. A gentle sauté will bring out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.
- Texture Matters: For a heartier soup, blend only half of the mixture, leaving some potato chunks for added texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it all!
- Customize Your Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the creaminess of your soup by varying the amount of milk or broth you add. If you like it thicker, use less liquid; if you prefer it thinner, add more.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh chives, extra cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt not only add flavor but also make your soup visually appealing.
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with additional spices or toppings like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
