This creamy bacon potato soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich, smooth base that makes it simply irresistible.
There’s nothing like the sound of sizzling bacon while cooking this soup—talk about tasty smells wafting through the kitchen! I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives this soup its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option or need it to be meat-free, try using turkey bacon or even tempeh bacon for a similar texture with less fat.
Potatoes: Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices for a creamy texture. If you’re short on time, frozen diced potatoes work too. Just be sure to adjust cooking times since they’re often pre-cooked.
Sour Cream: While sour cream adds tanginess, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. It still provides creaminess and a nice flavor. Non-dairy yogurt also works well if you need it dairy-free.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese alternative to match your dietary preferences.
How Can I Make My Soup Extra Creamy?
A creamy texture is key to a comforting potato soup. Here are steps you can take to achieve that:
- Using an immersion blender is a great way to puree some of the soup directly in the pot, giving you control over how creamy you want it. Alternatively, puree half in a blender, but be cautious—hot liquids can expand!
- Incorporating heavy cream brings richness. If you want it lighter, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Cream cheese can also add that luscious thickness!
- Don’t forget to gradually stir in the cheese—this prevents clumping and promotes creaminess. Ensure it melts fully before serving.
Remember, a thick soup often tastes better, so don’t hold back on the blending!
How to Make Creamy Bacon Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy bacon potato soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but let the yummy bacon drippings stay in the pot. This will add flavor to your soup!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion to the bacon drippings. Sauté it until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious aroma!
3. Make the Roux:
Next, sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir it constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux, which will help thicken the soup. This step is essential for that creamy consistency!
4. Add the Broth and Potatoes:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth while making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the diced potatoes. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook uncovered until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
If you have an immersion blender, use it to puree part of the soup directly in the pot. This will give you that creamy texture while still having some potato chunks. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a blender, puree it, and then return it to the pot.
6. Add the Creaminess:
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts, making the soup creamy and rich. Then, add the sour cream for an extra layer of flavor. Stir well to combine everything!
7. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy reserved bacon pieces and chopped fresh chives. It’s time to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!
8. Optional Serving:
Serve the soup hot, and if you like, enjoy it with some warm, crusty bread or rolls for dipping. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creaminess, you can also use red potatoes or even fingerling potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
How to Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead! You can prepare it completely and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also prepare the base (without the cream and cheese) in advance, and add those just before serving for the best texture.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Soup?
Definitely! You can make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also sauté some mushrooms for added flavor and texture!
