Craving the warm, comforting flavors of Panera’s Rustic Baked Potato Soup but don’t want to leave the house? Then you’ve come to the right place! This Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup – At-Home Version recipe is your ticket to enjoying that creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious soup in the comfort of your own kitchen. We’ve cracked the code, and we’re ready to share the secrets with you!
What is Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup?
Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup is a homemade adaptation of the popular soup served at Panera Bread restaurants. This creamy and hearty soup features chunks of tender baked potatoes, a rich and flavorful broth, and all the classic baked potato toppings like cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. It perfectly captures the essence of Panera’s version, offering a comforting and satisfying meal option, especially on chilly days.
It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant favorite without the restaurant price tag. The best part? This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. So why wait? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the warmth and deliciousness of this copycat soup! Give it a try, you won’t be disappointed!
Key Ingredients for Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup:
- 6 medium russet potatoes (about 3 pounds): Washed and baked until soft. Russet potatoes give the soup its signature starchy texture.
- 4 tablespoons butter: For sautéing aromatics and adding richness to the soup base.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a pungent aroma and flavor that complements the potatoes.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Serves as the liquid base of the soup. Choose low-sodium to control the salt content.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the soup. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a cheesy flavor to the soup. Reserve some for topping.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled: Provides a smoky and savory element. Reserve some for topping.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, slightly sharp flavor. Reserve some for topping.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, more cheese, bacon, and green onions
How to Make Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup:
This Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup is incredibly easy to make! It combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a bowl of comforting goodness in under an hour. The creamy texture and cheesy, bacon-y flavors make it a real crowd-pleaser. The total preparation timeline is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, give or take.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Bake the Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes and pierce them several times with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are soft and easily pierced with a fork.
Sauté Aromatics: While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Prepare the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into chunks. You can leave the skins on for a more rustic texture (like the original Panera soup!), or peel them if you prefer a smoother soup.
Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer. Add the chunks of baked potato and stir well.
Create the Creamy Base: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Add Bacon and Season: Stir in most of the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, reserving some for topping. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer and Serve: Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup:
This Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup is a guaranteed winner for several reasons. Firstly, the comfort factor is through the roof. It’s a warm, creamy, and satisfying bowl of goodness that’s perfect for cozy nights in. Secondly, making it at home saves you money. Restaurant prices can add up quickly, but with this recipe, you can enjoy the same delicious soup for a fraction of the cost. Think about all the extra toppings you can afford with the savings! Finally, it’s loaded with flavorful toppings that make it special. The combination of cheddar cheese, crispy crumbled bacon, and fresh green onions elevates the soup to a whole new level.
If you’re looking for another delicious comfort food to try, check out our recipe for creamy tomato soup. It’s another easy and satisfying option that’s sure to please. Ready to cozy up to a bowl of homemade comfort? Give this Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup recipe a try today!
What to Serve Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup With:
To create a complete and satisfying meal, consider serving this Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup with the following:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing! The warm, melty cheese complements the creamy soup perfectly.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Half Sandwich: Pair with a turkey or ham sandwich for a heartier lunch or dinner.
Top Tips for Perfecting Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup:
- Use High-Quality Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for this soup because they have a high starch content, which helps to thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy and make the soup too thick. Bake them until they are soft but still hold their shape.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the soup and simmer until thickened. For a thinner soup, add more chicken broth.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients, especially the onions, garlic, and green onions, will give the soup the best flavor.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Be sure to taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Baking vs. Boiling Potatoes: Baking the potatoes is the key to getting the authentic Panera flavor. Boiling tends to water down the potatoes, diluting the flavor.
- Cheese Choice Matters: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
5 Facts about Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup:
- It’s a Year-Round Favorite: While perfect for cold weather, this soup is enjoyed year-round for its comforting flavors.
- Customizable Toppings: The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: This soup is typically a hit with kids due to its creamy texture and cheesy, bacon-y flavors.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors of this soup continue to develop as it sits in the refrigerator, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Origins: Baked potato soup is believed to have originated as a way to use leftover baked potatoes, making it a thrifty and delicious meal.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Refrigerate: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: The best way to reheat the soup is on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the soup is too thick.
- Microwave: You can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Be sure to use a microwave-safe container and stir frequently to ensure even heating. Heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Final Thoughts:
This Copycat Panera Rustic Baked Potato Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the warmth of a cozy meal on a chilly evening, the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones. So, ditch the restaurant lines and embrace the simplicity of homemade goodness. Enjoy!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest