- Baked Potato: The star ingredient that gives the soup its name and thickness.
- Chicken Broth: For a savory base, you can use vegetable broth as an alternative.
- Onion: Finely diced for added flavor; use 1 medium onion per batch.
- Carrot: Adds color and nutritional value, about 1 large carrot or 2 small ones.
- Celery: Another key ingredient for depth of flavor, include 1 stalk chopped.
- Garlic Cloves: Crushed garlic (about 3 cloves) will intensify the soup's taste.
- Potatoes: Use leftover baked potatoes or pre-cooked russet potatoes; about 4 large potatoes.
- Cheese: For a creamy texture and rich flavor, consider cheddar, monterey jack, or a mix of both. Aim for 1 cup grated cheese.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup).
- Sour Cream: A dollop on top can add an extra layer of creaminess.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste; adjust according to your preference.
- Fresh Herbs: Like thyme or parsley, for garnish or flavor infusion.
- Diced Tomatoes: Optional, to increase the tomato content if desired.
Incorporating these SEO-friendly keywords can help optimize your recipe for search engines:
- Baked Potato Soup
- Cheese Soup Recipe
- Creamy Potatoes
- Savory Chicken Broth
- Vegetable Broth Option
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### Baked Potato Soup with Cheese: A Comforting Recipe
#### Introduction
Baked potato soup with cheese is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe combines the creamy texture of baked potatoes with savory beef broth, cheese, and vegetables to create a satisfying and flavorful soup. Follow these detailed steps to make this delicious comfort food at home.
#### Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, peeled and julienned
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Baked Potatoes**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
3. Prick each potato with a fork several times.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-75 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.
**Step 2: Cook the Vegetables**
1. While the potatoes are baking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 3-5 minutes or until softened.
3. Stir in chopped celery, carrots, and thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes.
**Step 3: Prepare the Broth**
1. Pour in beef broth into the pot with the vegetables.
2. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
3. Add canned diced tomatoes; stir well.
**Step 4: Mash the Potatoes**
1. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let cool slightly.
2. Peel the potatoes and mash them with butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
**Step 5: Combine Ingredients**
1. Gradually add the mashed potatoes to the broth mixture, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency.
2. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted.
#### Tips for SEO Optimization
- **Keywords**: Include keywords like "baked potato soup," "cheese," "beef broth," and "hearty comfort food" to improve search engine visibility.
- **Meta Descriptions**: Use short, compelling sentences that include these keywords to encourage clicks from potential visitors.
- **Internal Linking**: If applicable, link to other related recipes or articles about soups or comfort foods on your website.
Enjoy this comforting baked potato soup with cheese! It’s perfect for a cozy evening at home.