Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of creamy potato and bacon soup. This hearty recipe blends the earthy richness of potatoes with the smoky, savory flavor of bacon for a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
A Recipe with History and Heart
Potato soup has long been a staple in kitchens worldwide, cherished for its simplicity and versatility. By adding crispy bacon and a touch of cream, this version takes the classic dish to a whole new level. The inspiration for this recipe comes from those cold winter nights where all you need is a one-pot wonder to bring comfort to the entire family.
This potato and bacon soup isn’t just filling—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary.
How to Make Potato and Bacon Soup
1. Bacon: The Flavor Foundation
Begin by sautéing chopped bacon in a large pot. The rendered fat will serve as the flavorful base of your soup. Remove the crispy bacon bits and set them aside for garnish.
2. Potatoes: The Heart of the Soup
Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe. Their starchy texture adds creaminess to the soup while keeping its body thick and satisfying. After peeling and dicing, they’ll simmer in a rich broth until tender.
3. Building the Soup
Once the bacon fat is infused with onions, garlic, and aromatic spices, you’ll add the broth and potatoes. Simmer gently until the potatoes are soft, then blend half the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks for bite.
4. The Final Touch
The magic happens when you stir in cream and sprinkle crispy bacon over the top. Add a handful of cheese and broil for a few minutes for a golden, bubbly crust, then finish with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor.
What Makes This Dish Special?
- Hearty and Filling: Perfect as a meal on its own.
- Customizable: Swap the bacon for turkey bacon, or make it vegetarian by skipping the meat and using vegetable broth.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this soup is great for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal, and watch as it becomes a regular in your recipe rotation.
Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 6 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh chives chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon bits and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Add diced onion and garlic to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Simmer the Soup
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Blend for Creaminess
- Using an immersion blender, blend half the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half to a blender, then return it to the pot for a mix of creamy and chunky textures.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy bacon bits and fresh chives, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the sautéed onions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently on the stovetop.