This Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the buttery richness of gold potatoes with the smoky decadence of crisp bacon. Velvety in texture and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish that soothes the soul while delighting the palate. The subtle kick from ancho chili powder balances the creaminess perfectly, making every spoonful a cozy indulgence. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly winter evening or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light green salad. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a one-pot preparation, it’s the perfect recipe to add warmth and joy to your table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ lbs gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces (approximately 6 large potatoes or 1.15kg)
- 4 cups chicken broth (945ml)
- 2 cups milk (475ml)
- ⅔ cup heavy cream (155ml)
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (42g)
- 6 strips uncooked bacon, cut into small pieces
- 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted or salted)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1.5 cups/200g)
- 3 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder
- ⅔ cup sour cream (160g)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chives, additional sour cream, and bacon
Directions:
- Cook the bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon pieces, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Melt the butter in the pot with the bacon fat. Add chopped onion and sauté until tender (3-5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring until smooth. Add potatoes, chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and ancho chili powder. Stir thoroughly.
- Bring the soup to a boil, cooking until potatoes are fork-tender (10 minutes).
- Puree half the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender and return to the pot. Stir in sour cream and reserved bacon pieces.
- Simmer for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve with optional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, chives, or extra bacon.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty bowl of potato bacon soup. This classic recipe is a time-honored favorite, cherished for its creamy texture, smoky undertones, and ability to warm you up on even the coldest days. Beyond being delicious, potato bacon soup is also incredibly versatile, making it an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire.
Why Potato Bacon Soup is a Favorite
Potato bacon soup is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Gold potatoes, known for their naturally buttery and smooth consistency, serve as the foundation of this dish. When cooked, these potatoes become wonderfully tender, melting into the broth to create a velvety base. The addition of bacon adds a savory richness, infusing the soup with a smoky depth that complements the mild, earthy flavor of the potatoes.
This dish’s popularity lies not only in its comforting taste but also in its versatility. It can be served as a starter, a light lunch, or a hearty dinner depending on the portion size and accompaniments. The soup’s creamy base is a blank canvas, easily adaptable to suit individual preferences or dietary restrictions.
Versatility and Customization
One of the standout features of potato bacon soup is its adaptability. While the traditional recipe calls for bacon, heavy cream, and chicken broth, there are countless ways to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. For a vegetarian twist, smoked tofu or mushrooms can replace bacon, while vegetable broth substitutes chicken broth. Those seeking a lighter version might use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk.
The toppings offer another layer of creativity. While shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and chives are popular choices, other options like crispy fried onions, roasted garlic, or even diced jalapeños can add a unique flair. Want to make it heartier? Add chunks of grilled chicken or ham for a protein boost.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Potato bacon soup is a dish for all seasons. Its rich, creamy texture makes it a winter staple, offering warmth and comfort on cold days. However, its versatility means it’s just as enjoyable during cooler spring or autumn evenings when paired with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
This soup is also an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations. It’s easy to prepare in large batches, making it ideal for serving a crowd. Pair it with a selection of toppings and sides, and you have a customizable soup bar that’s sure to impress your guests.
Nutritional Insights
While indulgent, potato bacon soup offers several nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. They provide energy and help support cardiovascular and nervous system health. When prepared with moderation, the bacon and cream contribute protein and a dose of healthy fats, adding to the dish’s satisfying nature.
For a healthier take, the recipe can be adjusted to include more vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach, enhancing its nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor. Swapping heavy cream for lighter options or reducing the bacon can also help lower calorie content while maintaining its comforting essence.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
Creating the perfect bowl of potato bacon soup is all about technique and attention to detail. Achieving the right balance between chunky and creamy textures is key. Pureeing a portion of the soup ensures a smooth, velvety base while leaving chunks of potato adds heartiness. Using a high-quality blender or immersion blender can make this step easy and mess-free.
The choice of potatoes matters, too. Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture and buttery flavor, but russet or red potatoes can also work. Each variety brings a slightly different texture and taste, allowing for experimentation.
Seasoning is another crucial factor. While salt and pepper are staples, a touch of ancho chili powder or cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor, adding a hint of spice to balance the soup’s richness.
What to Serve with Potato Bacon Soup
Pairing this soup with the right sides can transform it from a simple dish to a full meal. A crusty loaf of bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the soup’s richness.
For a more indulgent experience, serve the soup alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a flaky pastry. The combination of textures and flavors will leave your taste buds satisfied. Beverages like a crisp white wine, a light beer, or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon are excellent complements to the dish.
Making It Ahead and Storage
Potato bacon soup is an excellent make-ahead meal. The flavors tend to deepen and meld together when allowed to sit for a day, making leftovers even more delicious. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to preserve the soup’s creamy texture. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, a splash of milk or broth can help restore its original consistency.
A Timeless Comfort Food
Potato bacon soup is more than just a meal it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Its creamy texture, smoky flavors, and versatile nature make it a timeless dish that appeals to all ages. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this soup is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.
Conclusion:
In the world of comfort food, potato bacon soup reigns supreme. Its rich, satisfying flavors and versatility make it a staple in kitchens everywhere. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply nourishing.
So why not give it a try? Customize it to your taste, experiment with toppings, and savor the warm, creamy goodness of this classic soup. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite, bringing a little extra comfort to your life, one spoonful at a time.