Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup is a comforting classic that brings together creamy potatoes and rich flavors in every spoonful. This hearty soup has its roots in Southern cooking, where simple ingredients transform into something truly satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime we crave a warm bowl of goodness.
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of creamy texture and savory toppings like cheese, bacon, and green onions. We love how easy it is to prepare yet feels indulgent enough for a special meal. Whether you’re a longtime fan of baked potato soup or trying it for the first time, this Charleston version will quickly become a favorite in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To craft the iconic Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup, we’ll focus on fresh, hearty components that bring out the full flavor of this Southern classic. Below are the essential elements and optional garnishes to achieve that perfect balance of creamy richness and savory toppings.
Main Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced for that perfect baked potato texture
- 4 cups chicken broth, the flavorful base that makes the soup hearty
- 1 cup heavy cream, adds the luscious creaminess that defines the soup’s texture
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted for richness and smoothness
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped to infuse savory depth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced to enhance aromatic flavor
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, to thicken and give the soup body
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste for balanced seasoning
Optional Toppings
Elevate our Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup with these classic garnishes to add texture and bursts of flavor:
| Topping | Description |
|---|---|
| Cheddar cheese | Shredded sharp cheddar melts perfectly on hot soup |
| Crispy bacon | Crumbled for a salty crunchy bite |
| Green onions | Sliced thin for fresh, mild onion flavor |
| Sour cream | A dollop adds tangy creaminess |
| Chives | Chopped for a subtle oniony freshness |
These toppings allow us to customize each bowl, creating an inviting presentation and layering our soup with savory, creamy, and crisp contrasts.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup, having the right equipment is essential. Here is a detailed list of the tools we use to prepare this hearty Southern classic:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
We start by sautéing aromatics and simmering potatoes in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or a large pot to ensure even heat distribution and prevent scorching.
- Chef’s Knife
Essential for peeling and dicing the Russet potatoes, onions, and chopping garlic. A sharp chef’s knife makes prep quicker and safer.
- Cutting Board
Use a sturdy cutting board for all chopping tasks, enhancing precision and safety.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy in measuring ingredients like chicken broth, heavy cream, and flour keeps the soup’s consistency perfect.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring the soup to ensure ingredients meld without damage to the pot’s surface.
- Ladle
For serving the soup neatly into bowls.
- Blender or Immersion Blender (Optional)
To achieve a smoother, creamier texture, we recommend blending a portion of the soup. An immersion blender offers convenience without extra dishes.
- Mixing Bowls
Useful for holding prepped toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large pot/Dutch oven | Cooking and simmering potatoes & soup | Heavy-bottomed preferred |
| Chef’s knife | Peeling and chopping ingredients | Sharp for efficient prep |
| Cutting board | Chopping surface | Sturdy for safety |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Measuring liquids and dry ingredients | Precise measurements required |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring soup | Heat-resistant |
| Ladle | Serving soup | For easy portioning |
| Blender/Immersion blender | Optional for smooth texture | Use according to desired texture |
| Mixing bowls | Holding prepped toppings | Keep soup assembly organized |
Having this equipment on hand streamlines our cooking process, allowing us to focus on flavor and texture — the hallmarks of Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup.
Preparation
To create the perfect Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup, we start with careful preparation of the core ingredients. Precise steps in prepping the potatoes and chopping the vegetables ensure a smooth cooking process and rich flavors.
Preparing the Potatoes
We begin by selecting large Russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which thickens the soup beautifully. Follow these steps:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt.
- Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler for a smoother soup texture, or leave the skin on for a rustic heartier bite.
- Cut the potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes. This size promotes even cooking and ensures tender bites.
| Step | Detail | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Wash & scrub | Remove all dirt | Clean potatoes for cooking |
| Peel (optional) | Remove potato skin | Achieve smoother soup texture |
| Cut into cubes | 1-inch uniform pieces | Even cooking and tenderness |
Our goal is to have the potatoes ready to soften perfectly during simmering, releasing their natural starch to enrich the soup’s creamy consistency.
Chopping Vegetables
Fresh onions and garlic infuse the soup with layered flavor. Here’s how we prepare them:
- Dice 1 medium onion finely to ensure it dissolves nicely into the soup base, releasing sweetness without chunky pieces.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic to spread their aromatic punch evenly.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife and a clean cutting board to maintain precision and safety.
These vegetables will sauté in butter, forming the flavor foundation before we add the potatoes and broth. Finely chopping also helps avoid overpowering bites and balances the soup’s smooth texture.
“Good preparation leads to great results.”
By following these preparation steps, we set ourselves up for success in creating a rich, creamy, and flavorful Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the rich and comforting Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup that promises robust flavors and creamy texture.
Making the Soup Base
- Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until foamy.
- Add 1 medium onion, finely diced, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until translucent and aromatic.
- Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute to release their flavor without browning.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook while stirring constantly for 2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste and create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Add 4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes, to the broth mixture.
Simmering the Soup
- Bring the soup base to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
Blending for Creaminess (If Applicable)
- For a smoother, creamier texture characteristic of Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Blend the soup until the desired consistency is reached, leaving some chunks for texture or pureeing completely if preferred.
- Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a countertop blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot.
- Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and heat gently over low heat until warmed through, avoiding boiling to prevent curdling.
| Step | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Melt Butter & Sauté | Butter foamy; onions translucent; garlic tender |
| Make Roux | Flour cooked 2 min; no lumps after broth addition |
| Simmer Soup | 20-25 min; potatoes tender; season to taste |
| Blend Soup (Optional) | Use immersion blender or countertop blender |
| Add Cream & Warm | Heat gently; do not boil |
Assembly and Serving
Once our Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup has reached its creamy perfection, it’s time to assemble and serve this comforting classic with the perfect finishing touches. These final steps elevate the soup from hearty to unforgettable.
Adding Toppings
We build flavor and texture by layering the ideal toppings. Each adds a unique contrast to the velvety base of our baked potato soup.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle generously to melt slightly into the hot soup.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Add crunch and smoky richness.
- Chopped Green Onions: Provide a fresh, mild sharpness.
- Sour Cream Dollops: Offer creamy tanginess that balances the flavors.
- Chives: Sprinkle finely for a subtle onion aroma and vibrant color.
Here is a suggested quantity table per serving, but feel free to adjust to taste:
| Topping | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Shredded Cheddar | 2 tablespoons |
| Crispy Bacon Bits | 1 tablespoon |
| Chopped Green Onions | 1 tablespoon |
| Sour Cream | 1 tablespoon |
| Chives | 1 teaspoon |
We recommend arranging the toppings in small bowls side-by-side so each diner can customize according to their preferences.
Serving Suggestions
For the fullest Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup experience, serve immediately while warm, paired with:
- A slice of buttery garlic bread or crisp artisan crackers for dipping.
- A fresh green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette for balance.
- Optional: A glass of cold buttermilk or chilled white wine complements the creamy richness beautifully.
We ladle the soup into deep bowls, add the toppings, and invite all to savor the blend of creamy and savory layers. This combination ensures our baked potato soup is enjoyed at its very best — rich, satisfying, and irresistibly Southern.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead with Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup saves us time and helps the flavors to deepen beautifully. To make the process smooth, here are key make-ahead strategies we recommend:
- Prepare the Soup Base in Advance
We can cook the base soup up to 2 days before serving. After simmering the potatoes until tender and incorporating the roux, broth, and seasoning, allow the soup to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready, reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, then finish with the heavy cream just before serving to preserve its richness.
- Freeze for Longer Storage
For longer storage, freezing the uncreamed soup base works best. Freeze in portions within freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label with the date and use within 3 months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add heavy cream and toppings fresh to maintain the soup’s signature creamy texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration (with cream added after reheating) | Up to 2 days | Reheat gently to avoid curdling |
| Freezing (soup base only) | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, add cream and mix-ins after warming |
- Prep Toppings Ahead
Crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions can be prepped and stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This ensures fresh, vibrant toppings when serving without extra last-minute work.
- Blending Tip for Make-Ahead
If we prefer the soup fully blended for smoothness, blend after reheating rather than before storing. This prevents the soup from thickening too much or separating during storage.
“Make-ahead prep not only saves time but enhances the depth of flavors in our Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup, delivering that comforting, hearty experience every time.“
By following these tips, we maintain the creamy texture, robust taste, and fresh garnishes that make this baked potato soup a Southern classic.
Storage and Reheating
To keep our Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container to prevent absorption of other odors and to maintain the creamy texture.
Refrigeration
We can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For best results, keep the toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions separate until serving to maintain their crispness and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If we want to enjoy the soup later, freezing is a great option. Store the uncreamed soup base (before adding heavy cream) in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Remember to freeze toppings separately and add fresh when reheating.
Reheating Instructions
When ready to enjoy the soup again, follow these steps for reheating without compromising texture or taste:
- Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Pour the soup into a large pot.
- Heat over medium-low heat while stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
- Once warmed through, gradually stir in the heavy cream to restore richness.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender after reheating.
- Reheat toppings separately if needed and add just before serving.
Storage and Reheating Guide
| Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3–4 days | Store toppings separately, keep airtight |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Freeze uncreamed soup, thaw overnight before reheating |
| Reheating | Medium-low heat | Stir frequently, add cream after warming |
Pro Tip: “Avoid boiling the soup during reheating as this can cause the cream to separate and affect the soup’s velvety texture.”
By following these storage and reheating steps, we ensure our Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup stays rich, creamy, and full of Southern comfort every time we serve it.
Conclusion
Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup brings together warmth, comfort, and rich Southern flavors in every spoonful. With its creamy texture and customizable toppings, it’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe offers an easy yet indulgent way to satisfy your cravings.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can confidently create a soup that’s both hearty and elegant. It’s a dish that invites you to gather around the table, savor each bite, and enjoy a true taste of Southern hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup unique?
Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup stands out for its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavors rooted in Southern cooking. The use of savory toppings like bacon, cheddar, and green onions adds a delicious customization that enhances the overall experience.
What are the key ingredients for this soup?
Essential ingredients include large Russet potatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, unsalted butter, onion, garlic, flour, and seasonings. Optional toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions complement the soup’s flavor.
What equipment do I need to prepare this soup?
You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, wooden spoon or silicone spatula, ladle, mixing bowls, and optionally a blender or immersion blender for a smoother texture.
How do I prepare the potatoes for the soup?
Wash and optionally peel the Russet potatoes, then cut them into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. This ensures the potatoes cook thoroughly and blend well with the soup base.
Can I make Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base up to two days in advance and refrigerate it or freeze the uncreamed base for longer storage. Keep toppings separate and add them fresh when serving.
What is the best way to serve this soup?
Serve the soup warm, topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions. Pair it with buttery garlic bread or artisan crackers for a complete, comforting Southern meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool the soup to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. The uncreamed base can be frozen for up to 3 months, while toppings stay fresh if stored separately.
How do I reheat the soup without losing its creamy texture?
Thaw frozen soup overnight, reheat gently over medium-low heat, and stir in heavy cream gradually. Avoid boiling to preserve the soup’s velvety consistency.
Can I adjust the soup’s texture?
Yes, after cooking, you can blend the soup using a blender or immersion blender for a creamier texture. This step is optional based on your preference.
Is this soup suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Its rich flavors and elegant presentation with toppings make Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup perfect for both casual meals and special gatherings.