When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to keep the cold at bay. Potato and bacon soup is a comforting classic that combines creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and flavorful seasonings to create a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a pot of this delightful soup:
6 slices of bacon, diced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings until it’s soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and BrothAdd the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Step 4: Blend the Soup
For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip this step or blend only half of the mixture.
If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream and SeasoningsStir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and optional seasonings like thyme or smoked paprika.
Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Tips for Success
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe. Russets give a creamier texture, while Yukon Golds hold their shape better.
Bacon: For an extra smoky flavor, try using thick-cut bacon or pancetta.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and reheated. It tends to thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a bit of broth or milk when reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Potato and bacon soup is a true comfort food that’s both versatile and crowd-pleasing. Its rich, creamy texture and smoky flavor make it perfect for cozy nights in or as a starter for a larger meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, like adding shredded cheese, corn, or diced vegetables.
Give this recipe a try and let it warm your heart and soul. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
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