Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. This rich and creamy soup is loaded with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and flavorful vegetables, making it a hearty dish that the whole family will love. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 Tbsp butter
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced (1-inch pieces)
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chopped chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Cook Bacon:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté Onions, Celery, and Carrots:
   • Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Roux

1. Add Butter:
   • Add the butter to the pot and let it melt completely.
2. Add Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to create a roux.

Step 4: Add Broth and Potatoes

1. Add Chicken Broth:
   • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Add Potatoes:
   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Add Milk and Seasonings

1. Add Milk:
   • Stir in the whole milk and dried thyme. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the soup is heated through and slightly thickened.
2. Season:
   • Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Blend the Soup (Optional)

1. Blend for Creamier Texture:
   • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks of potatoes and vegetables for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped chives.
2. Enjoy:
   • Serve the Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon hot, and enjoy this hearty and comforting dish.

Cook Notes and Variations

Cook Notes:

• Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but you can also use russet potatoes or red potatoes.
• Bacon: Cooking the bacon until crispy adds a great texture and flavor to the soup.

Variations:

• Cheesy Potato Soup:
  • Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the soup along with the milk for a cheesy version.
• Vegetable Additions:
  • Add other vegetables such as corn or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Variations:
  • Use fresh thyme or other herbs like rosemary or parsley for added flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I serve with Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon?

This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

5. Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as 2%, skim, or even a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender potatoes, savory bacon, and rich, creamy broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is simple to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and delightful meal. Happy cooking!