This creamy bacon potato soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Full of tender potatoes and crispy bacon, it’s perfect for chilly days.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of bacon cooking? I could eat this soup every day! It’s so easy to whip up and feels like comfort food magic.
I love serving it with some crispy bread for dipping. It’s a great way to warm up any meal and bring everyone together at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of this soup! I prefer using thick-cut bacon for more flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works as a substitute. It won’t be quite as rich, but it still provides that savory taste.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for their creaminess. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also work well if you prefer a buttery flavor. Just make sure to peel and dice them before adding to the pot!
Heavy Cream: This adds that delicious creaminess. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but the soup won’t be as rich. Coconut milk can also be a great dairy-free option!
Sour Cream: It adds a nice tanginess. If you don’t have any, plain Greek yogurt makes a healthy swap that also works well. For a vegan version, try using cashew cream.
Cheddar Cheese: I love adding shredded cheddar for extra cheesiness, but you can swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little heat. For a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Get My Soup to Be Creamy Without Over-blending?
Finding the perfect creamy texture in this soup can be a bit tricky. Here’s how to achieve that balance:
- After the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for control over the texture. It’s easier and less messy!
- If using a regular blender, only blend half the soup at a time. This way, you maintain some potato pieces for that lovely texture while still making it creamy.
- For a really smooth consistency, blend until you see a creamy swirl, but don’t make it completely smooth—pieces of potatoes are key!
Trust me, getting this balance right makes all the difference! Enjoy your delicious soup!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh chives, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be enjoying a comforting bowl of creamy bacon potato soup in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside. Leave the delicious bacon fat in the pot because it adds amazing flavor!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Now, add the finely chopped onion to the bacon fat in the pot. Sauté the onion until it’s soft and translucent, which will take about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute so it gets nice and fragrant.
3. Add Flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This will help thicken the soup and cook out any raw flour taste. You want this to be nicely combined!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth. Make sure to stir well to avoid any lumps forming. It should start to thicken a little as it heats up.
5. Prepare the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are very tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
6. Blend for Creaminess:
Here’s where the magic happens! Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup in the pot to create a creamy texture while leaving some potato chunks for a delightful bite. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and then return it to the pot.
7. Stir in Creamy Ingredients:
Now, add the butter, heavy cream, and sour cream to the pot. Stir everything together until it’s fully incorporated and oh-so-creamy!
8. Cheese It Up:
If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), stir in the shredded cheddar cheese now and let it melt into the soup for extra tastiness!
9. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a quick taste test and adjust as necessary.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot soup in bowls, and top it generously with the crispy bacon you set aside. Sprinkle some chopped fresh chives over the top for a lovely pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and comforting Bacon Potato Soup perfect for cold days!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes in This Soup?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are great for a creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes work beautifully as well. They give a lovely buttery flavor. Just ensure they are peeled and diced before cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for a savory flavor boost!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. If the soup thickens, feel free to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up!
Can I Freeze Creamy Bacon Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, adding a bit of cream to restore creaminess if needed.
