How to make 🥓 Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup 🥔✨




This Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and loaded with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. Perfect for chilly days or when you crave a bowl of cozy warmth, this soup is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.


Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

  1. Stir in the diced potatoes, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using).
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Thicken the Soup

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and 1/4 cup of water until smooth.
  2. Stir the flour mixture into the soup and simmer for 2–3 minutes, or until the soup thickens slightly.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

  1. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
    • Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Bacon

  1. Stir in the heavy cream and most of the cooked bacon (reserving some for garnish).
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with the reserved bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions or chives.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Potato and Bacon Soup

  1. Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
  2. Don’t Overblend: If blending, leave some chunks for a rustic, hearty feel.
  3. Layer the Flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a flavor twist.
  4. Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Why You’ll Love It

This Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup is:

  • Rich and Flavorful: Loaded with smoky bacon, creamy broth, and tender potatoes.
  • Comforting: Perfect for warming up on a cold day.
  • Simple to Make: One pot, minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for extra indulgence.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Serve with buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread for dipping.
  • Enjoy alongside a warm beverage for the ultimate cozy experience.