This warm and creamy bacon potato soup is perfect for cozy nights. Loads of tender potatoes and crispy bacon come together to create a delicious bowl of comfort.
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything in a pot and let it bubble away. Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a rich flavor base to the soup. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a good substitute, although it won’t be as rich.
Potatoes: I love using Russet potatoes for their creamy texture when cooked. Yukon Gold is another amazing option due to its buttery flavor. If you need a quicker option, try frozen diced potatoes!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the soup rich and creamy, you can replace it with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind it won’t be as thick.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese brings sharp flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Gruyère or even a dairy-free cheese option if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Blended Soup?
Getting the right consistency is key in bacon potato soup. I recommend using an immersion blender for an easy approach. It lets you control how smooth you want your soup to be without transferring hot liquid back and forth.
- Blend until you have your desired texture, leaving some potato chunks for a heartier feel.
- If using a regular blender, cool the soup slightly first to avoid splashes, and blend in batches.
Remember, blending too much can turn it into a puree, so blend just enough to mix it well!
Bacon Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold work well)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful bacon potato soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, totaling about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a warm, nourishing meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the chopped bacon and cook it over medium heat until it turns crispy. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to absorb the excess grease. Keep the rendered bacon fat in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring it continuously to create a roux. Allow this to cook for around 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly to combine well.
4. Add Broth and Potatoes:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the diced potatoes and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Blend the Soup:
If you have an immersion blender, use it to blend the soup to your desired consistency, leaving a few chunks of potato for texture. If not, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, purée it, and return it to the pot.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, cooking over low heat until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is warmed through. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into serving bowls and top with the crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Sprinkle each bowl with extra cheese and chopped chives or green onions for a fresh touch!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy bacon potato soup hot with slices of crusty bread or crackers on the side. It’s a wonderful, cozy meal perfect for sharing!
This creamy, hearty bacon potato soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are great for their texture, you can also use red potatoes or fingerlings. Just remember that some varieties may have a waxier texture, which can alter the creaminess of the soup.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Just note that it won’t be as rich, and you may need to adjust the flour for thickness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.