Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion? This creamy potato soup with bacon recipe will hit the spot every time! Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a luscious creamy broth, this recipe is a winner for chilly nights or when you just need a bowl of something cozy. Read on for the full guide to mastering this delectable dish!

What is Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon?

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a warm, rich, and comforting soup made from potatoes, bacon, and a creamy broth. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a favorite comfort food for many. The soup can be made thick and chunky or smooth and creamy, depending on your preference. While the potatoes provide heartiness and richness, the crispy bacon adds a salty, smoky contrast that elevates the dish.

Ingredients List for Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. This recipe requires some basic ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 5-6 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh chives or green onions for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional for serving)
• Sour cream (optional for serving)

Ingredients List for Optional Garnishes

To enhance the presentation and flavor of your creamy potato soup with bacon, you may also want to add a few garnishes that will add extra depth and richness:

• Extra crispy bacon bits
• Freshly cracked black pepper
• Croutons for added texture
• Drizzle of olive oil or truffle oil
• Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley

Substitutions and Variations

While this creamy potato soup with bacon recipe is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:

• Bacon Substitutes: For a lighter version or if you're avoiding pork, turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can be used. You could also substitute the bacon with ham or sausage for a different twist.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter or dairy-free version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half, almond milk, or coconut milk. You could also use Greek yogurt or sour cream to maintain the creamy texture.
• Broth Variations: Chicken broth is traditional for a richer flavor, but vegetable broth works perfectly for a vegetarian version. You could also experiment with bone broth for added nutrients.
• Additional Vegetables: Add veggies like carrots, celery, or leeks to bring more depth and nutrition to the soup. Corn can add sweetness and peas give it a vibrant pop of color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the cooking process step by step. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, making it accessible for both beginner and seasoned home cooks.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

• Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the slices of bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot, discarding the rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. If you're adding other vegetables like carrots or celery, sauté them at this point as well.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes

• Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir them with the onions and garlic, coating them with the bacon grease and sauté for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Roux

• Push the potatoes to the side of the pot and melt the butter in the cleared space. Once melted, stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook the flour and butter for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color. This will help thicken the soup later on.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

• Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth. Make sure to stir the bottom of the pot to incorporate all the roux. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6: Blend the Soup

• Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion of the soup or skip this step entirely.

Step 7: Add Cream and Bacon

• Stir in the heavy cream and milk, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Crumble the cooked bacon into the soup, reserving some for garnish. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors.

How to Cook Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Step 1: Cook bacon until crispy; drain and set aside.
• Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic in the remaining bacon grease until softened.
• Step 3: Add diced potatoes and sauté for a few minutes.
• Step 4: Make a roux by stirring in flour and butter.
• Step 5: Add broth and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
• Step 6: Blend the soup to your preferred texture.
• Step 7: Stir in cream, seasonings, and bacon before simmering a bit longer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soup may seem simple, but there are a few pitfalls you’ll want to avoid to ensure your creamy potato soup with bacon comes out perfectly every time.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be sure to simmer the potatoes just until fork-tender. Overcooking can result in mushy potatoes that don’t hold their shape in the soup.
• Not Making a Roux: Skipping the roux can result in a soup that’s too thin. The flour helps to thicken the broth, so don’t skip this step.
• Over-Blending: If you prefer some texture in your soup, be careful not to over-blend it. Too much blending can turn your soup into more of a puree.
• Using Cold Dairy: Always add cream and milk when the soup is off the heat or simmering gently. Cold dairy products can curdle if added to a hot mixture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present your creamy potato soup with bacon can make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish, even if it’s a simple recipe. Here are a few tips for serving and presenting this soup:

• Garnish Generously: Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheese, fresh chives, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a rustic and hearty presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls made from hollowed-out round loaves of sourdough.
• Add Croutons or Crackers: Serve the soup with homemade croutons or a side of crackers for added crunch.

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

This creamy potato soup is versatile and can be served in several ways to complement your meal. Consider the following options:

• As a Starter: Serve small bowls as an appetizer to a larger meal, such as roast chicken or grilled vegetables.
• As a Main Course: Pair the soup with a simple salad, crusty bread, or a sandwich to make a satisfying meal.
• For a Party: Serve the soup in shot glasses or small bowls as part of a buffet spread for a cozy, casual gathering.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

• Layered Presentation: Serve your soup in clear bowls or glasses to show off the layers of potatoes, bacon, and garnishes.
• Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with cheese, sour cream, chopped herbs, and extra bacon bits so guests can customize their bowls.
• Creative Garnishes: Add a drizzle of cream, truffle oil, or olive oil in a swirl for a gourmet touch. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a pop of color.

Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
• Freeze It: This soup freezes well. Just avoid adding the cream before freezing. When you reheat it, stir in the cream for the best texture.
• Customizable Thickness: If your soup turns out too thick, add a little extra broth or milk to thin it out. If it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture. Just be aware that waxy potatoes hold their shape better, while Russets break down more, creating a thicker soup.

Can I make this soup dairy-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

How long does this soup last in the fridge? The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze creamy potato soup? Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the soup, heat it up, and then stir in the cream.

How can I make this soup healthier? You can reduce the amount of bacon and substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or a plant-based milk.

Conclusion

Creamy potato soup with bacon is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this rich and flavorful soup will surely impress. Follow this recipe, and with a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade soup that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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