This Potato and Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with hearty potatoes and crispy bacon. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day or to satisfy your craving for a savory, indulgent meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 1/2 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 chopped green onions or chives
- 1/2 cup sour cream for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté in the bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Base
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup partially, leaving some potato chunks for texture.
- Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Step 6: Add Cream and Bacon
- Stir in the heavy cream and most of the cooked bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions or chives, sour cream, and the reserved crispy bacon.
Tips for Perfect Potato and Bacon Soup
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture.
- Control the Thickness: Adjust the consistency by adding more chicken broth for a thinner soup or blending more for a thicker soup.
- Make It Smokier: Add a touch of smoked paprika or diced ham for a smoky flavor boost.
- Store and Reheat: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Why You’ll Love It
This Potato and Bacon Soup is:
- Rich and Creamy: Comfort in every spoonful.
- Savory and Flavorful: Bacon and potatoes are a match made in heaven.
- Simple to Make: Ready in under an hour with easy-to-find ingredients.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a lighter side.
- Enjoy as a standalone meal or as part of a cozy dinner spread.