If you’ve ever craved something warm and comforting to wrap you in a cozy hug, then Bob Evans Cheesy Potato Soup is definitely something to try. This beloved dish, often served in the Bob Evans restaurants, is one of those soups that’s full of rich flavors and heartwarming ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleaser, an easy recipe to whip up for any weeknight dinner, and it’s perfect for chilly evenings. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate this delicious soup at home, I’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide that will make you feel like a chef in your own kitchen.
Bob Evans has a way of turning simple ingredients into something spectacular, and their Cheesy Potato Soup is a prime example of how comfort food can be elevated with just the right combination of flavors. You’ll get the velvety smoothness from the potatoes, the savory depth from the bacon, and of course, that glorious cheesy richness that makes it so irresistible.
Bob Evans Cheesy Potato Soup Recipe
The beauty of Bob Evans’ Cheesy Potato Soup lies in its simplicity. This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require a lot of complicated steps, but the end result is absolutely satisfying. You’ll love how the creamy texture of the potatoes blends with the sharpness of the cheddar cheese and the smokiness of the bacon. Here’s how to bring this comforting soup to life in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, make sure you have all these ingredients lined up:
- Russet Potatoes (about 4 medium-sized) – These provide the hearty base for the soup, offering a creamy texture when cooked down.
- Bacon (6 strips) – Crisped up and crumbled, bacon adds that smoky, savory bite that brings depth to the soup.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup base.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with a lovely aromatic punch.
- Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The liquid base that helps to cook the potatoes and adds richness to the soup.
- Half-and-Half (2 cups) – For the creamy, smooth texture you want in a cheesy potato soup.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Sharp cheddar gives the soup its bold and gooey cheesy goodness.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the onions and garlic, and to give the soup an extra velvety finish.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste) – For seasoning the soup to perfection.
- Green Onions or Chives (optional, for garnish) – For a fresh and colorful finish on top of your soup.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll have a bowl of soup that’s sure to make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cozy Bob Evans restaurant.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. This ensures that they cook evenly and break down into that lovely creamy texture once simmered.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, fry the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and crumble it into small bits. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot to use for flavor.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the butter and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easy to mash.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture. This step gives the soup a nice, thick consistency.
- Add the Half-and-Half: Pour in the half-and-half and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup, making it rich and creamy.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Taste-test the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Finish with Bacon and Garnish: Stir in the crumbled bacon, saving a little for garnish. If desired, top the soup with sliced green onions or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the extra bacon and green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Every ingredient in this soup has a role to play in creating that signature flavor and texture:
- Russet Potatoes: These starchy potatoes are the ideal choice for a creamy soup. They break down easily when cooked, creating a smooth texture.
- Bacon: Bacon adds more than just crunch; it introduces a smoky, savory layer that elevates the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Half-and-Half: This is the key to achieving that perfect creamy texture without making the soup too heavy. It’s rich but not as thick as heavy cream, striking the perfect balance.
- Cheddar Cheese: Choose a sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. As it melts into the soup, it adds a velvety texture and a delightful tanginess.
- Chicken Broth: The broth forms the base of the soup, and using chicken broth gives it a savory depth that vegetable broth can’t quite replicate.
Expert Tips
- For Extra Creaminess: If you want an even smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup after mashing the potatoes. This will make the soup extra velvety without losing the chunks of potato.
- Bacon Variations: If you’re not a fan of pork, turkey bacon works just as well. You can also skip the bacon altogether if you prefer a vegetarian version, although it will change the flavor profile slightly.
- Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch, let it cool, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just reheat on the stovetop.
- Consistency Adjustment: If the soup is too thick after adding the cheese, feel free to add a little more half-and-half or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Recipe Variations
While Bob Evans’ original Cheesy Potato Soup recipe is amazing on its own, there are plenty of ways to give it your own twist:
- Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even corn for a little extra sweetness and crunch.
- Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add an extra layer of fragrance and flavor to the soup.
- Extra Protein: Consider adding some shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage for a heartier version of the soup.
- Low-carb Option: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb version. It won’t taste exactly the same, but it’s a great option if you’re cutting carbs.
Final Words
Bob Evans Cheesy Potato Soup is one of those dishes that will make you want to curl up on the couch and enjoy a steaming bowl, preferably with a slice of crusty bread on the side. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory, with just the right amount of texture. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner, a holiday meal, or just because, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.