This Creamy Bacon Potato Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s just plain cozy.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of bacon cooking? I like to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese and some green onions for extra yumminess. Perfect for chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of the dish! I love using thick-cut bacon for that extra chew and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta can work well, too.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this soup because they become creamy when cooked. You can swap them with Yukon Golds for a slight buttery taste or even use sweet potatoes for a twist!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, though it won’t be as creamy. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer something milder, feel free to use mild cheddar. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast to add cheesiness!
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Don’t Turn Mushy?
To keep some texture in your soup, be careful not to overcook the potatoes. Start by bringing the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer gently. This allows the potatoes to become tender without falling apart.
- Dice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark; they should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.
Using a potato masher to blend only part of the soup helps maintain some chunky pieces. This gives a great mouthfeel and makes for a hearty soup!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices of bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups potatoes (about 4 medium-sized), peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy and hearty soup will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend approximately 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then about 20 minutes cooking it all together. Get ready to enjoy a delicious, warm bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon strips from the pot and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess fat. After they cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, discard most of the bacon fat, but keep 1-2 tablespoons in the pot for flavor. Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Mash and Mix:
After the potatoes are cooked, grab a potato masher or immersion blender and mash some of the potatoes in the pot to create a creamy texture. Leave a few chunky pieces for some heartiness—this gives the soup great texture!
5. Stir in the Creamy Goodness:
Now, slowly stir in the heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Gently heat the mixture until the cheese has melted and the soup is hot. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper!
6. Serve & Garnish:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Serve it warm, and enjoy each comforting bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While Russet potatoes are great for their creaminess, Yukon Golds will add a buttery flavor. If you prefer a twist, try using sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness in the soup!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness if you want that depth of flavor!
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can mash more of the potatoes or add a slurry made of cornstarch mixed with cold water. Stir it in while the soup is simmering and let it cook for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.