Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe

Nothing beats the comforting warmth of a hot bowl of creamy potato soup, especially when it’s loaded with crispy bacon! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty meal that satisfies your soul. This creamy potato soup with bacon will become a go-to favorite in your home. Keep reading to learn all the secrets to making this flavorful and rich dish, and don’t miss out on the extra tips and variations that will elevate your soup to the next level.

What is Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon?

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a classic comfort food that combines the richness of potatoes and cream with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. This soup is known for its velvety texture, which is achieved by blending some of the cooked potatoes into the broth, while still leaving a few chunks for added texture. The bacon adds a savory, slightly salty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup base, making this dish an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed as a light dinner or a side dish, this soup is both simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients List for Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

To create this delicious creamy potato soup with bacon, you will need the following ingredients. These components come together to create a rich and flavorful dish that is sure to impress:

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 pounds of Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional for garnish)
• Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about creamy potato soup is its versatility. If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to dietary restrictions, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Bacon Substitutes: For a healthier or vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether and add smoked paprika for that rich, smoky flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the cream and milk with unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.
• Gluten-Free: Skip the flour or use cornstarch as a thickener instead of flour. Be sure to use a gluten-free broth as well.
• Extra Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, or leeks to the soup for additional flavor and texture.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in some shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy potato soup.
• Spice it Up: For those who like a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create the perfect creamy potato soup with bacon:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the onion and garlic mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Cook for about 2 minutes before adding the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Make the Cream Base: While the potatoes are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux (a thickening paste). Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, then slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. This will give the soup its creamy texture while still leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the soup to a blender and process until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Combine the Soup: Stir in the thickened cream mixture into the soup pot, blending well with the potatoes and broth. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Add the Bacon: Stir in the crispy bacon pieces, saving some for garnish if desired. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld all the flavors together.

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

1. Start by cooking the bacon until crispy.
2. Sauté the onions and garlic in bacon grease.
3. Add diced potatoes and broth, then simmer until the potatoes are tender.
4. Create a cream base with butter, flour, milk, and cream.
5. Blend part of the soup for a smooth, creamy texture.
6. Stir in the cream base and bacon.
7. Simmer everything together for a rich, flavorful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-blending: Blending too much of the soup can result in a gluey texture. To avoid this, only blend part of the soup to maintain a balance between creaminess and texture.
• Not Cooking the Bacon Enough: Ensure the bacon is fully crispy before adding it to the soup, as this will add a nice crunch and enhance the overall flavor.
• Undercooking the Potatoes: The potatoes need to be fully cooked before blending, or the soup will have a grainy texture. Make sure to test them with a fork to ensure they are soft and tender.
• Not Adjusting the Seasoning: Potatoes tend to absorb salt, so taste the soup at various stages and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a hearty dish, but how you serve it can make all the difference in enhancing the experience. Here are a few tips for serving and presenting your soup in a way that will impress your family or guests:

• Bacon Topping: Always reserve some of the crispy bacon bits to sprinkle on top right before serving for an added crunch.
• Sour Cream Dollop: A spoonful of sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Chives or Green Onions: Chopped fresh chives or green onions not only add a pop of color but also a mild oniony flavor that complements the soup.
• Cheese Topping: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese will melt beautifully into the hot soup, creating a gooey, cheesy finish.

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

• Serve your soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
• For a heartier meal, pair the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side of garlic bread.
• If you’re serving this soup as an appetizer, keep the portions small, as it is quite rich and filling.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon

• Serve the soup in bread bowls for a rustic and satisfying presentation.
• Garnish each bowl with a swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, and a few crispy bacon pieces.
• Use small cast iron skillets for individual servings to add a cozy, homey touch.

Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will only deepen over time. Reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed to thin it out.
• Freeze-Friendly: You can freeze this soup, but avoid adding the cream before freezing. Add the cream when reheating to maintain the soup’s texture.
• Add Garnishes Right Before Serving: Wait to add garnishes like bacon, cheese, and chives until the last minute to ensure they stay fresh and vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup without blending?
A: Yes, if you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step entirely and enjoy it with hearty potato pieces.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: To make the soup thicker, add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux, or blend more of the soup for a creamier texture.

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes! Sweet potatoes can be substituted, but keep in mind they will change the flavor of the soup, giving it a slightly sweeter taste.

Q: What can I do if my soup is too thick?
A: Simply add a little more broth, cream, or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Creamy potato soup with bacon is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please. By following this step-by-step guide and incorporating some of the suggested tips and variations, you’ll have a versatile, delicious soup that can be adapted to fit any taste or dietary need. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness of homemade potato soup!

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