Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe

If you're craving a warm, hearty, and comforting meal, this Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is exactly what you need. This recipe combines the smooth, rich texture of potatoes with the savory crunch of bacon, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or just a cozy night in, this soup will quickly become a favorite. Read on to learn everything you need to know to make the best creamy potato soup with bacon, from the ingredient list to serving and presentation ideas, as well as common mistakes to avoid. Let’s dive in and make this delicious recipe together!

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What is Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon?

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a simple yet flavorful soup that combines the richness of mashed potatoes with the smoky, savory taste of crispy bacon. This soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to dish for cold days or whenever you want a filling, delicious meal. The creaminess comes from using ingredients like butter, cream, or milk, while the potatoes add thickness and a soft, smooth texture. Bacon pieces add crunch and a smoky bite that complements the mild potato base.

Ingredients List for Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious creamy potato soup:

• 6 medium Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Sour cream (optional, for serving)

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying soup that's perfect for lunch or dinner.

Substitutions and Variations

If you don't have all the ingredients on hand, or you’re looking to customize your creamy potato soup with bacon, here are some great substitutions and variations to try:

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes are best for this recipe due to their high starch content, but you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture or red potatoes for a heartier bite.
• Bacon: Turkey bacon, pancetta, or ham can be used as a substitute if you want to change up the flavors or opt for a lighter option.
• Dairy-Free: To make this soup dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can add a smoky flavor by using smoked paprika.
• Additional Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks for added nutrition and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To ensure your creamy potato soup with bacon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes. Cut them into small, even cubes so they cook evenly. Next, chop the onion and garlic, and get your bacon ready by cooking it until it's crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon and set it aside.

2. Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot, as this will add flavor to the soup.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged. Add thyme, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily mashed with a fork.

5. Blend the Soup

Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave some potato pieces whole. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.

6. Add Cream and Bacon

Stir in the heavy cream and half of the crumbled bacon. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon, chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), and a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making creamy potato soup with bacon:

• Not Cooking the Bacon Until Crispy: Bacon that’s not fully cooked can end up soggy in the soup. Make sure to cook it until it’s nice and crispy.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: Potatoes should be soft enough to blend smoothly into the soup. Check them by piercing with a fork before blending.
• Over-blending the Soup: If you blend the soup too much, it can become overly starchy and gummy. Blend until smooth, but don’t overdo it.
• Forgetting to Season Properly: Potatoes tend to absorb salt, so be sure to taste your soup as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A great bowl of creamy potato soup deserves thoughtful serving and presentation. Here are some tips to make your soup look as good as it tastes:

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

Serve the soup hot with your favorite toppings like crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to dip into the creamy soup, making it a perfect, filling meal.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

• Mason Jars or Soup Bowls: Serve the soup in individual mason jars for a rustic, homey presentation. Or opt for wide, shallow bowls to allow the garnishes to shine.
• Garnish Artfully: Sprinkle the bacon, green onions, and cheese over the soup in a neat line or swirl the sour cream on top for an artistic touch.
• Serve in a Bread Bowl: For a fun variation, hollow out a round loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for a delicious edible bowl.

Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon Recipe Tips

• For Extra Creaminess: Add a bit of cream cheese or sour cream into the soup while blending for an even richer texture.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
• Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well, but hold off on adding the cream until you reheat it. When reheating, add the cream in fresh for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup without blending it?

Yes! If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step altogether or simply mash the potatoes slightly with a fork or potato masher for a more rustic texture.

How can I make the soup lighter?

To lighten the soup, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half, or use a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon for a lower-calorie option.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or leeks can be added to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats through evenly.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the bacon separately and then add all the ingredients (except the cream and toppings) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Blend the soup, then stir in the cream and serve with the bacon and toppings.

Conclusion

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a comforting and satisfying meal that's easy to make and sure to please any crowd. With its rich, creamy base, crispy bacon, and simple ingredients, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty, filling dish. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or trying out substitutions and variations, this soup is versatile and customizable to suit your tastes. So grab your pot, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious and cozy bowl of goodness!

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