4 People
15 mins
30 mins
This creamy potato bacon soup is one of my all-time favorites, especially on chilly days. There’s something utterly comforting about a bowl of warm soup, and this recipe embodies that feeling. Every spoonful is packed with rich flavors and heartiness, thanks to the crispy bacon and tender potatoes that melt in your mouth.
Preparing this soup is a straightforward affair. I love how it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum satisfaction. As the potatoes cook and soften, they release their starches into the broth, creating a naturally creamy texture. The fragrant mixture of crispy bacon and sautéed vegetables lays the groundwork for an irresistible flavor profile.
What makes this soup so versatile is how easily you can adjust the seasonings and toppings to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a little extra kick, consider adding some garlic or diced jalapeños. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad, and it transforms into a complete meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Storing and Reheating Soup
If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures you can enjoy this creamy goodness again! I recommend using an airtight container to keep the flavors intact. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating is easy – just warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. If it appears too thick, adding a splash of broth or water can bring it back to life. You’ll find that the flavors deepen with time, making your leftovers even more enjoyable.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. This option allows you to make a batch ahead of time and pull it out whenever needed. However, for optimal quality, I suggest consuming it within two months.
How to Make Your Potato Bacon Soup
To make this glorious potato bacon soup, you’ll start by cooking bacon until crispy, then use the rendered fat to sauté onions and garlic. As the aromas fill your kitchen, it’s an exciting precursor to the heartiness that follows!
Next, you’ll add diced potatoes, broth, and some herbs for added flavor. Once the potatoes are tender, you can blend a portion of the soup to achieve that creamy consistency or leave it chunky for texture. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
This step-by-step process builds anticipation for the results. The transformation from raw ingredients to a flavorful dish feels like culinary magic, and it’s a process I relish each time I make it.
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Ingredients
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced About 4 medium potatoes.
6 slices bacon
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 cup chopped green onions For garnish.
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon, leaving the drippings in the pot. Chop the bacon and set aside for garnishing later.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic to the bacon drippings. Sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture if desired.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and chopped green onions.
The Perfect Pairings
This potato bacon soup can stand alone, but enhancing your dining experience with the right sides makes everything even better. A slice of crusty, warm bread is a classic pairing. You can use it to soak up every drop of the creamy soup.
A fresh side salad filled with mixed greens, tomatoes, and tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. This combination keeps the meal balanced and satisfies different taste buds.
If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine, like a Chardonnay, complements the soup’s flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a light beer is a fun and casual pairing that enhances the comforting vibe.
Nutritional Benefits of Potato Bacon Soup
Potato bacon soup is not just delicious; it’s also loaded with benefits that make it a great addition to your meal rotation. Potatoes are high in potassium and fiber, which can help regulate blood pressure and improve digestion. The bacon adds a satisfying crunch and flavor, enriching the overall nutrient profile.
This soup can also be modified to fit various dietary needs. You can swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon or even bacon bits for a healthier option without sacrificing taste. If you prefer a more plant-based diet, consider substituting the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms, offering a unique twist!
Even with the indulgent elements of bacon and cream, moderating portion sizes allows you to enjoy this soup without too much guilt. It’s all about balance, after all!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for this soup?
A: Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for creaminess, Yukon gold or red potatoes can also work well, offering different textures.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
A: Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth while adding spices and smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
Q: Can I add cheese to the potato bacon soup?
A: Yes! Adding shredded cheddar cheese enhances creaminess and adds another layer of flavor. Stir it in just before serving for the best melt.
Q: How can I increase the nutritional value of this soup?
A: Consider adding leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. You can also throw in other veggies, such as carrots or celery, for extra nutrition.
Q: What is the best way to thicken the soup?
A: Besides blending some of the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) as it simmers, stirring until it thickens.
