Are you ready to delve into the delightful world of Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup? This comforting dish perfectly blends history, flavor, and healthiness. Let’s explore this savory recipe together!
History of Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup
Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup has its roots in the heart of South Carolina, where it originated as a hearty and satisfying meal for chilly evenings. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the South, this soup has become a beloved staple in many households across the region.
How to make Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup
Making Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup is straightforward. You must follow our simple steps and ensure you have all the ingredients.
Ingredients
- Four large potatoes
- Six slices of bacon
- One onion, diced
- Two cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- Two tablespoons of chopped chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step by Step Instructions
- Start by frying the bacon in a large pot until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes, then add them to the pot and the chicken broth.
- Simmer the mixture until the potatoes are tender, then use a blender to puree it until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until they’re melted and incorporated.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then serve it hot with crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and extra cheese on top.
Kitchen tools you needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Blender or immersion blender
- Ladle
What to serve with Charleston’s Baked Potato
Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or a classic BLT.
Recipe taste like
This soup boasts a rich, creamy texture, savory bacon flavor, and hints of sharp cheddar cheese. The comforting warmth of the potatoes makes it a perfect choice for chilly days or cozy nights. If you want to try a lot of tasty soup, you can try our Zuppa Del Giorno Soup.
Healthier Option
While Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup is undeniably indulgent, you can make it slightly healthier by using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese. Additionally, you can add extra vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to boost the nutritional content.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 15g
Healthy Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup
Course: SoupsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes25
350
kcalCharleston’s Baked Potato Soup is a yummy dish that comes from South Carolina. It’s a creamy soup with potatoes, bacon, and cheese, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
Four large potatoes
Six slices of bacon
One onion, diced
Two cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups of chicken broth
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Two tablespoons of chopped chives
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Start by frying the bacon in a large pot until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes, then add them to the pot and the chicken broth.
- Simmer the mixture until the potatoes are tender, then use a blender to puree it until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until they’re melted and incorporated.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then serve it hot with crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and extra cheese on top.
Nutrition Facts
6 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories350
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
20g
31%
- Total Carbohydrate
25g
9%
- Protein 15g 30%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
My tips and Recommendations
Crispy Bacon Magic:
Achieve maximum flavor by cooking the bacon until it’s super crispy. This adds a delightful crunch to your soup.
Onion and Garlic Harmony:
Saute the diced onion and minced garlic until they are soft and golden. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Potato Prep Prowess:
Cut the potatoes into small, uniform cubes for even cooking. This ensures a consistent and smooth texture in every spoonful.
Blending Brilliance:
Use a blender or immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s velvety smooth. This step creates the perfect creamy consistency.
Cheese Fusion Technique:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, allowing it to melt fully. This gives your soup a rich and cheesy goodness.
Seasoning Savvy:
Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This ensures a perfectly balanced flavor.
Garnish Galore:
When serving, sprinkle chopped chives, extra cheese, and crumbled bacon. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall taste.
Bread Buddy System:
Pair your soup with crusty bread or a side of your choice. The combination of textures elevates the dining experience.
Healthier Hacks:
For a healthier version, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese. Add extra veggies for a nutrient boost.
Final Remarks
Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup is a delicious, comforting dish for any occasion. With its rich history, flavorful ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not whip up a batch today and savor the taste of the South?
FAQs
Can I make it if I’m not a cooking expert?
Absolutely! This recipe is super easy. You’re good to go if you can chop potatoes and fry bacon!
Why is it called Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup?
It’s named after Charleston, a place in South Carolina. People there love this warm and tasty soup.
Can I make it without some ingredients?
Sure thing! You can tweak the recipe based on what you have. No bacon? No problem. Get creative!