This Bacon Potato Soup is warm, creamy, and super comforting! It features tender potatoes and crispy bacon bits that bring a tasty crunch to each bowl. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup on chilly days! It fills you up and warms your heart—perfect for sharing with family or enjoying alone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings amazing flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. I find that the smokiness adds delightful depth to the soup.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold is best for this soup, as they become creamy when cooked. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes can work, but they hold their shape more.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its rich creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but it won’t be as thick.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a lot of flavors. If you prefer a milder cheese, you can swap in Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
How Do I Get My Onions and Garlic Just Right?
Cooking the onions and garlic properly is key to developing a rich flavor. Start with medium heat to avoid burning. Here’s how:
- Cook the onions for about 5 minutes until they are soft and brightening in color.
- Add garlic last since it only takes a minute to become fragrant, preventing it from burning.
Enjoy the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen! It makes the soup even more inviting.
Delicious Bacon Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup cottage cheese (for creaminess and garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup will take you about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and cozy meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it becomes crispy. Once it’s done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Don’t forget to keep about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the remaining bacon fat in the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and soft. Then add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until it smells delicious!
3. Cook the Potatoes:
Now, stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Mash the Potatoes:
Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, partially mash the potatoes right in the pot. Aim for a chunky texture—some pieces should remain for heartiness!
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Next, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the soup becomes nice and creamy!
6. Mix in Sour Cream and Chives:
Add the sour cream and chopped chives into the pot, mixing well. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep tasting to ensure it’s just right!
7. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to enjoy your soup! Serve it hot, and for extra flavor, garnish with the reserved crispy bacon pieces, more shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of cottage cheese or sour cream, and a sprinkle of chives on top.
And there you have it! Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this comforting Bacon Potato Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While Russet and Yukon Gold are the recommended choices for their creamy texture, you can also use red potatoes. Just keep in mind that red potatoes tend to hold their shape better, which will give you a chunkier soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Healthier?
To lighten up the soup, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter milk. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat cheddar for fewer calories.
Can I Prepare This Soup in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the soup a day ahead. Just allow it to cool completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore the consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
