This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.

The secret to Houlihan's soup is using a combination of boiled potatoes and instant potato flakes for the perfect texture. Don't forget the bacon, chive and cheddar topping for the perfect garnish.

1 1/2 pound baking potatoes
1/4 pound butter
2 cups yellow onion, diced
1/3 cup flour
5 cups water
1/4 cup low sodium chicken base
1 cup instant potato flakes
3/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
salt and white pepper to taste
grated Cheddar cheese
sliced scallions
bacon (cooked until crisp and diced)
Prick washed potatoes and bake in a preheated 400 degrees F oven until a fork pierces to the center easily. Remove potatoes from oven and allow to fully cool. Remove skin and cut potatoes into 1/2-1" cubes. Set aside.
Melt butter in a large saucepan. Add onions and saute over low heat for 10 minutes or until onions are translucent. Don't allow onions to burn. Add flour to onions and butter and cook 4 - 5 minutes, stirring well until flour is absorbed.
In a separate container, combine water, chicken base, potato flakes and seasonings. Stir or whisk thoroughly to eliminate lumps. Add slowly to onion mixture, stirring constantly so no lumps form. Increase to medium heat and continue cooking until the soup begins to gently simmer. Add milk and cream, stirring until smooth and lightly thickened. Simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil. Soup should just simmer lightly. Add cubed baked potatoes and stir to combine. Remove from heat and serve. Top each serving with grated cheddar cheese, sliced scallions and bacon pieces.
MikeMcInnis
This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.
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reviews & comments
January 22, 2019
This soup is delicious. I substituted chicken stock for the water & chicken base. I also used black pepper, not white but came perfect!
July 5, 2013
This is one of the best baked potato soups you'll try. The key is the combination of the regular potatoes and the instant flakes. You get just the right consistancy as houlihan's.
November 3, 2012
This is houlihans recipe. I know I used to work there! Absolutely amazing and easy to make.
December 1, 2005
Easiest recipe to make. Delicious! My husband had several friends over and did a taste test. They couldn't believe it tasted exactly like the restaurant soup! Thanks for the recipe - I now use it whenever I have company.