Potato and Bacon Soup: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

There’s something magical about a warm, hearty bowl of Potato and Bacon Soup, especially on a chilly day. This recipe is everything you want in a comforting meal: creamy, smoky, and full of flavor. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is a must-try!

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Why You’ll Love This Potato and Bacon Soup

This soup checks all the boxes when it comes to a soul-soothing meal. It’s:

• Creamy and flavorful with tender potatoes and crisp bacon in every spoonful.
• Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
• Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a make-ahead lunch.

The best part? It smells like heaven while it’s cooking!

The Taste of Potato and Bacon Soup

Imagine the comforting aroma of simmering potatoes mingling with the smoky richness of bacon. Each bite delivers a velvety smooth texture with pops of savory bacon and hints of garlic and herbs. It’s comfort food at its finest—a perfect balance of richness and warmth.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Potato and Bacon Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this bowl of comfort:

• 6 slices of bacon (chopped)
• 2 lbs potatoes (peeled and diced; Yukon Gold or Russets work best)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Ladle for serving
• Immersion blender or potato masher (optional, for a creamier texture)

Additions and Substitutions

• Extra veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or corn for extra color and flavor.
• Herbs and spices: Thyme, rosemary, or paprika can take this soup to the next level.
• Bacon alternatives: Turkey bacon or pancetta works beautifully if you’re looking for something different.
• Dairy-free option: Swap out the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk.

How to Make Potato and Bacon Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the butter to the pot and melt it with the bacon drippings. Toss in the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for a minute to coat them with the onion mixture. Pour in the chicken stock, bringing everything to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Blend (Optional)

For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the mixture. Alternatively, mash some of the potatoes with a potato masher.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy bacon, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.

What to Serve with Potato and Bacon Soup

This soup pairs wonderfully with:

• Crusty bread for dipping.
• A fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a hearty side dish.

Tips for Perfect Potato and Bacon Soup

• Don’t skip the bacon drippings: They add incredible flavor to the base of the soup.
• Cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Blend cautiously: If using a blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splashes.
• Make it your own: Experiment with toppings like sour cream, green onions, or extra cheese.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup without the cream for up to 3 months. When reheating, stir in the cream after thawing and heating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for meal prep.

What’s the best way to reheat Potato and Bacon Soup?

Reheat gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.

In Conclusion

Potato and Bacon Soup is the epitome of comfort food: creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s easy to make and endlessly customizable, so you can tweak it to suit your taste. Whether you’re savoring it on a cozy evening or serving it to loved ones, this soup is guaranteed to impress.

Love this recipe? Check out these delicious comfort dishes for more inspiration:

• Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
• The Best Ever Stuffed Mushroom Dip Recipe
• Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni

Don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest—find me at Emma Recipes! I’d love to see your creations!

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g

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