Indulge in this hearty Potato and Bacon Soup, filled with creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and rich flavors. Perfect for cozy dinners or chilly days.

Introduction

Potato and Bacon Soup is a bowl of pure comfort that never fails to please. This creamy, hearty dish is a favorite for good reason: it combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and a rich broth for an irresistible flavor combination. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a simple dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup hits the spot. Best of all, it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and quick to prepare. Grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups diced potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Thicken the soup: In a small bowl, whisk the flour with the milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the pot, followed by the heavy cream.
5. Add seasonings: Stir in the thyme and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Blend (optional): For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or mash some of the potatoes with a fork.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

How to Prepare

Preparing Potato and Bacon Soup is easy and rewarding. Start by cooking the bacon, then sauté the onions and garlic in the flavorful drippings. Add potatoes, broth, and cream to build a rich base, and finish with your favorite toppings for a perfect bowl of comfort.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
2. What potatoes work best for this recipe?
   Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
   Cream-based soups don’t freeze well, but you can freeze it before adding the cream and milk.
4. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Yes! Substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
5. What toppings go well with this soup?
   Crispy bacon, green onions, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream are all fantastic options.

Conclusion

Potato and Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy textures with smoky, savory flavors. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Enjoy this timeless classic!