Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Potato and Bacon Soup is a classic comfort food dish made with creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and fresh herbs. It’s a great soup to warm up with during the colder months and is simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The combination of smoky bacon, soft potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth creates a deliciously satisfying soup that will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- Heat the Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Drain the Bacon: Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add Butter and Onion: To the pot with the bacon drippings, add the unsalted butter and chopped onion. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Cook the Potatoes
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Blend and Make Creamy
- Blend the Soup: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. You can also transfer half of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Serve
- Add Bacon: Stir half of the crispy bacon into the soup, reserving the rest for garnish.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining bacon and chopped fresh chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes are best for this soup as they break down nicely and add to the creamy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a good option.
- Texture: For a thicker soup, mash more of the potatoes or blend more of the soup. For a chunkier texture, leave more of the potatoes whole.
Variations
- Loaded Potato Soup: Add toppings like sour cream, extra shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for a “loaded” version of the soup.
- Spicy Potato and Bacon Soup: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the soup a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced carrots or celery along with the onion for more vegetables and extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Potato and Bacon Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Can I freeze Potato and Bacon Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. Keep in mind that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly upon freezing.
What can I serve with Potato and Bacon Soup?
This soup is delicious served with crusty bread, biscuits, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with crackers for added crunch.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by omitting the butter and using coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of the heavy cream.
Potato and Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory flavors makes this soup a favorite for everyone in the family. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always a comforting delight.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic soup!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!
