Description
This Easy Spicy Baked Potato Soup is a hearty, creamy dish that captures the flavors of a loaded baked potato with a kick of spice. Made with tender Russet potatoes, salsa verde, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory ground beef, this comforting soup is perfect for cozy nights. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s easy to make, customizable, and great for meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose or gluten-free flour
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups milk
- 1/3 cup salsa verde
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chopped green onions, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Beef – In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute.
- Make the Roux – Melt butter in the pot, then sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add Broth & Potatoes – Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth until smooth. Add chopped potatoes, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Mash for Texture – Lightly mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup while keeping some chunks.
- Incorporate Dairy & Salsa Verde – Stir in milk, salsa verde, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and shredded cheddar. Cook until creamy and fully combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve & Garnish – Ladle into bowls and top with cooked beef, cilantro, and green onions. Enjoy!
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the salsa verde or add jalapeños for more heat.
- Cheese Variations: Try smoked cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère.
- Thicker Soup: Mash more potatoes or use a cornstarch slurry.
- Slow Cooker Version: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except dairy) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding dairy at the end.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
