Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon Recipe
Why Make This Recipe?
Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is the definition of comfort food. With its rich, velvety texture and smoky bacon topping, this hearty soup is a guaranteed family favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a bowl of warmth and satisfaction, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Serve it as a main dish or a starter, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 6-8
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
How to Make Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped ????
- 1 medium onion, diced ????
- 2 cloves garlic, minced ????
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced ????
- 4 cups chicken broth ????
- 1 cup milk ????
- 1 cup heavy cream ????
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ????
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional) ????️
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Toppings:
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese ????
- Chopped green onions ????
- Additional crispy bacon bits ????
Directions
- Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, leave some potato pieces intact. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.
- Add Creaminess
- Stir in the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits, extra cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
Serve this soup hot with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal. Pair it with your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea for a cozy dining experience.
How to Store Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling.
Tips to Make Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, which helps thicken the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Bacon Drippings: Cooking the onions in bacon drippings adds a depth of smoky flavor.
- Adjust the Consistency: Add more broth if the soup is too thick, or simmer longer to thicken it.
Variations
- Loaded Potato Soup: Top with sour cream, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, and chives for a fully loaded flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Tips for Success
- Blend with Care: If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
- Cheese Last: Add the cheese after blending and stirring to prevent it from clumping or curdling.
- Garnish Generously: The toppings add texture and flavor, so don’t hold back!
How Many Servings?
This recipe makes 6-8 servings as a main course or 10-12 smaller servings as a starter.
Calories and Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: ~12g
- Fats: ~20g
- Saturated Fats: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sodium: ~700mg
Health Benefits of Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
- Rich in Potassium: Potatoes are a great source of potassium, essential for heart and muscle health.
- Protein Boost: Bacon and cheese add protein to keep you satisfied.
- Comfort Food: This warm, hearty soup is great for boosting mood and energy on cold days.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes, with adjustments:
- Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce added salt.
- Heart-Healthy: Replace heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
- Gentle Texture: The creamy consistency makes it easy to chew and digest.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Add all the ingredients except the cream, cheese, and toppings to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then blend and stir in the cream and cheese.
3. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a boost of vitamins.
Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Rich, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your home. Try it today and savor every spoonful!
