Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish that captures the essence of comfort food. This restaurant-style soup is packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and rich dairy, making it a satisfying meal, especially on cold days.
Inspired by the beloved version served at Charleston’s Restaurant, this homemade recipe brings the same velvety texture and satisfying taste right to your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a warm lunch, a filling dinner, or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream, fresh chives, and extra bacon for an irresistible finishing touch!
How to Make Charleston’s Baked Potato Soup?
A smooth, cheesy potato soup loaded with bacon and topped with fresh chives for a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes (baked, peeled, and diced)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese & Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Toppings
- 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- ¼ cup green onions or chives (chopped)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Preparing Instructions
1: Prepare the Potatoes:
- Bake potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45–50 minutes, then dice.
2: Make the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Slowly whisk in milk and broth, stirring continuously.
- Add diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3: Finish & Serve:
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream until fully melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon, green onions, and extra cheese.
4: Servings
Serves 6 as a main dish.
Presentation & Decoration
- Garnish: Extra bacon, cheddar, and chives for a restaurant-style touch.
- Plating: Serve in a bread bowl or with a side of crusty bread.
Best Time to Eat
- Lunch/Dinner: A hearty meal on cold days.
- Casual Gatherings: Serve as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks.
Portion Guide
- 1 person: 1 baked potato, 1 cup milk, ½ cup broth.
- 6 people: 4 potatoes, 4 cups milk, 2 cups broth.
Storage & Shelf Life
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove.
- Freezing: Not recommended—dairy-based soups may separate.
- Room Temperature: Consume within 2 hours.
Allergy Guide
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based milk, cheese, and cream.
- Low-Lactose: Use lactose-free dairy alternatives.
Did this Charleston-inspired soup warm up your table? Leave a review or share your cozy soup creation! ✨
Recipe inspired by Charleston’s famous baked potato soup and homestyle comfort food.
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.