Paula Deen’s Baked Potato Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth and rich flavors to any table. Known for her Southern cooking, Paula has perfected this creamy, hearty soup that’s loaded with tender potatoes, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create something so satisfying and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream, chives, or extra cheese.
If you’re craving a bowl of comfort food that’s both indulgent and easy to make, Paula Deen’s Baked Potato Soup is a must-try. Let’s dive into this delicious Southern favorite that’s sure to become a staple in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
To make Paula Deen’s Baked Potato Soup, we need a mix of hearty main ingredients and flavorful toppings that bring out the classic Southern taste and creamy texture. Here’s what we’ll use to build the base and complement it perfectly.
Main Ingredients
These ingredients create the rich and creamy foundation of our baked potato soup.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Toppings and Garnishes
- 6 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Russet potatoes, onion, butter, flour, chicken broth, whole milk, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, sour cream |
| Toppings & Garnishes | Bacon, cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream |
Equipment Needed
To prepare Paula Deen Baked Potato Soup perfectly, having the right equipment on hand is essential. This ensures a smooth cooking process and helps us achieve that rich, creamy texture Paula Deen’s recipe is famous for. Below is the detailed list of tools we will use step-by-step:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot or Dutch Oven | To cook potatoes and simmer the soup base |
| Medium Saucepan | To melt butter and make the roux (flour mixture) |
| Potato Peeler | For peeling the russet potatoes |
| Chef’s Knife | For finely chopping onions and cutting bacon |
| Cutting Board | To safely chop vegetables and bacon |
| Mixing Spoon or Whisk | To stir soup ingredients and prevent lumps |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | For accurate ingredient amounts |
| Colander | To drain the boiled potatoes |
| Potato Masher or Fork | To mash potatoes slightly for texture |
| Ladle | For serving the soup |
| Soup Bowls and Spoons | For presentation and enjoying the dish |
Why These Tools Matter
- Using a large pot or Dutch oven allows the potatoes to cook evenly while providing ample space for simmering the soup.
- Preparing the roux in a medium saucepan helps us control heat and avoid burning the butter and flour.
- The potato peeler and chef’s knife ensure clean, uniform cuts so flavors blend consistently in the soup.
- A potato masher lets us achieve the classic creamy texture with just a few lumps for heartiness.
- Accurate measurements are vital for balance, which is why a set of measuring cups and spoons is indispensable.
Equipped with these tools, we can confidently recreate Paula Deen’s beloved Baked Potato Soup and enjoy its comforting flavors to the fullest.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Paula Deen Baked Potato Soup with rich, creamy texture and bold Southern flavors.
Prep Work
- Peel and cube 4 large russet potatoes into evenly sized pieces about 1-inch for uniform cooking.
- Finely chop 1 medium onion to enhance aroma and flavor throughout the soup.
- Crisp bacon strips in a skillet until golden and drain on paper towels; reserve bacon fat for cooking if desired.
- Gather all ingredients and utensils including butter, flour, chicken broth, whole milk, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, sour cream, potato peeler, chef’s knife, cutting board, pot, and mixing spoon.
Cooking the Soup
- Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 4 cups chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Return the cooked potatoes to the pot and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Slowly stir in 2 cups whole milk and heat until warm but not boiling.
- Add 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring gently until melted and smooth.
- Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; adjust to taste.
Final Assembly and Serving
- Using a potato masher, partially mash the potatoes in the soup for a creamy yet chunky texture.
- Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream for extra richness and tang.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon crumbles, extra shredded cheddar, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
| Step | Key Details | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Boil Potatoes | Cook until fork-tender (15 minutes) | Tender, easily mashable potatoes |
| Make Roux | Butter + Flour (2 minutes) | Thickens soup base |
| Add Broth & Onion | Whisk continuously | Create smooth soup texture |
| Incorporate Milk & Cheese | Heat gently, melt cheese | Creamy, rich consistency |
| Season | Salt & Pepper to taste | Balance flavors |
| Mash Potatoes | Partially mashed | Creamy yet textured mouthfeel |
| Garnish & Serve | Bacon, cheese, onions, sour cream | Visual appeal, added flavor |
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Storing and preparing our Paula Deen Baked Potato Soup ahead of time ensures convenience without sacrificing its creamy texture and rich flavors. Follow these expert tips to maintain the soup’s quality and enhance your meal planning.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the soup fully up to the point where the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream are added.
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This prevents condensation and keeps the texture intact.
- Cover the soup tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days. This timing preserves the freshness without compromising taste.
“Making the soup ahead makes busy days easier without losing the comforting essence of the dish.”
Reheating Instructions
- Slowly reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
- Stir frequently to avoid scorching and to help the cheese melt evenly.
- If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of whole milk or chicken broth to restore the desired consistency.
- Avoid reheating in the microwave at high power, as this can break the smooth texture.
Freezing Guidelines
While we recommend fresh consumption for the best flavor, Paula Deen Baked Potato Soup can be frozen with proper care:
| Storage Type | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Cool completely, store in an airtight container. Defrost overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove. |
Tips for Best Quality
- Do not add crispy bacon or sour cream before storage; add these fresh as toppings after reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
- Stir the soup well after reheating to reincorporate any separated ingredients.
- Use quality airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and off-flavors.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we keep our soup tasting like it was freshly made, ready to deliver the classic Southern comfort Paula Deen is famous for.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Baked Potato Soup is a true Southern classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an easy favorite for family meals or casual get-togethers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe we can rely on to satisfy cravings and impress guests alike.
By using the right tools and following the tips for storage and reheating, we can enjoy this delicious soup anytime. Whether served piping hot or made ahead for convenience, it’s sure to become a staple in our recipe collection. Give it a try and experience the cozy goodness that only this baked potato soup can deliver.