What to Eat with Baked Potato Soup: 7 Tasty Options You’ll Love

Baked potato soup is the perfect comfort food, especially when the weather is chilly or you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and comforting warmth make it a go-to meal for many. However, if you’re looking to elevate your baked potato soup experience, pairing it with the right sides can make all the difference. The key is to balance the soup’s creamy texture and savory flavors with sides that complement its richness without overwhelming it.

In this article, we’ll explore 7 tasty options to serve alongside baked potato soup. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, these pairings will take your baked potato soup to the next level.

1. Fresh Salad with Crispy Bacon

When it comes to pairing sides with baked potato soup, a fresh salad is an excellent choice. The crispness of fresh greens balances the creamy texture of the soup, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Adding crispy bacon to the salad gives it a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.

Recipe for Fresh Salad with Bacon:

• Mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Crispy bacon, crumbled
• Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

To make this salad, simply toss the mixed greens with the tomatoes and onions. Top with crumbled bacon and drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette. This side is simple to prepare and adds a refreshing bite to your meal.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The freshness of the salad cuts through the soup’s creaminess, and the bacon adds a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese in the soup.

2. Cheddar and Chive Biscuits

If you love the combination of potatoes and cheese, then cheddar and chive biscuits are a must-try side. The soft, flaky texture of these biscuits, combined with the sharp, tangy cheddar and fresh chives, perfectly complements the hearty flavors of baked potato soup.

Recipe for Cheddar and Chive Biscuits:

• 1 ½ cups flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup cold butter
• ¾ cup milk

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cheese. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the milk and stir until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The biscuits’ cheesy, herby flavor enhances the soup’s richness, and their soft, warm texture makes them perfect for dipping into the soup.

3. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with any creamy soup, including baked potato soup. The crispy, buttery texture of garlic bread contrasts nicely with the smooth and velvety consistency of the soup. Plus, the garlic adds a punch of flavor that complements the savory nature of the soup.

Recipe for Garlic Bread:

• 1 baguette
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the baguette into 1-inch pieces. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Spread the garlic butter mixture on each slice of bread and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The garlic butter flavor and crispy texture add a savory contrast to the creamy soup, making each bite more enjoyable.

4. Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers are a great protein option to pair with baked potato soup. The light, smoky flavor of grilled chicken works beautifully with the richness of the soup, and the skewers make for a fun and easy way to serve the chicken. You can season the chicken with a variety of herbs, lemon, or garlic to enhance the flavor profile.

Recipe for Grilled Chicken Skewers:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush the chicken with the marinade and grill on medium heat for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The grilled chicken adds a lean protein to your meal, and the smoky, lemony marinade brings out flavors that complement the soup’s creamy base.

5. Steamed Vegetables

Steamed vegetables are a light yet flavorful side that pairs well with the rich creaminess of baked potato soup. You can choose a variety of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and peas. Steaming helps preserve the vegetables’ nutrients and natural flavors, creating a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.

Recipe for Steamed Vegetables:

• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup peas

Steam the vegetables in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes or until tender but still crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The fresh, tender vegetables provide a burst of flavor and texture, offering a healthy and vibrant contrast to the creamy, heavy soup.

6. Crispy Onion Rings

If you’re looking for a fun and indulgent side, crispy onion rings are a fantastic choice. Their crunchy exterior and sweet, savory interior pair perfectly with the smooth, velvety texture of baked potato soup. Plus, they add a little extra flavor and texture to your meal.

Recipe for Crispy Onion Rings:

• 1 large onion, sliced into rings
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Dip the onion rings into flour, then the beaten egg, and finally coat them in panko breadcrumbs. Fry the onion rings until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The crunchy texture and savory flavor of the onion rings provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.

7. A Hearty Side Salad with Avocado

For a healthy and fresh side, try a hearty side salad with avocado. The creamy avocado adds a rich texture to the salad, while the fresh vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Tossing the salad with a light vinaigrette will bring all the flavors together.

Recipe for Avocado Salad:

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toss the avocado, cucumber, and mixed greens in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Why it works with baked potato soup: The creamy avocado enhances the richness of the soup, and the freshness of the salad adds a much-needed contrast to the heavy, creamy potatoes.

How to Choose the Best Pairings for Baked Potato Soup

When selecting sides to pair with baked potato soup, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

1. Texture balance: Since baked potato soup is creamy, it’s important to choose sides that offer a contrast in texture. Think crispy, crunchy, or fresh options like salads and garlic bread.
2. Flavor harmony: Baked potato soup is rich and savory, so you’ll want sides that complement these flavors without overpowering them. Lightly seasoned proteins, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressings work best.
3. Nutritional balance: Pairing the soup with sides that provide a balance of nutrients—such as protein, fiber, and healthy fats—can help create a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Preparing Quick and Easy Side Dishes

1. Keep it simple: Choose sides that are quick and easy to prepare. Simple salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables can be put together in minutes.
2. Plan ahead: If you’re short on time, prep your sides in advance. Many side dishes, like salads and garlic bread, can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
3. Mix and match: Feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations. For example, you could swap out the bacon in the salad for grilled chicken or try different herbs in the biscuits.

FAQ Section

Q1: What are the best bread options to serve with baked potato soup?
Classic choices include garlic bread, soft rolls, or crispy baguette slices. These bread types soak up the soup’s creamy texture beautifully.

Q2: Can I serve a dessert with baked potato soup?
Absolutely! Light desserts like fruit tarts, chocolate mousse, or a scoop of sorbet can provide a refreshing end to your meal.

Q3: What is the best salad dressing for pairing with baked potato soup?
A simple vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing pairs well with the soup. You can also try a tangy balsamic dressing for added flavor.

Conclusion

Pairing the right sides with baked potato soup can elevate your meal from good to great. Whether you’re craving something light like a fresh salad or indulging in crispy onion rings, there are plenty of options that complement the richness of the soup. Experiment with these 7 pairings, and discover what works best for your taste. Let your creativity flow, and don’t forget to share your favorite pairings with us in the comments below! Happy eating!