Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delectable Creamy Potato Bacon Soup recipe. When the chill sets in, nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of creamy potatoes, salty bacon, and gooey cheese. The rich aromas wafting through the kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinnertime. This soup strikes the perfect balance between decadence and simplicity, making it a go-to favorite for both cozy nights in and special family gatherings.

The magic of this Creamy Potato Bacon Soup lies in its ability to turn an ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary. Kids adore the melty cheese topping, and even the most selective eaters will be coming back for seconds. Whether you’re seeking a quick win in the kitchen or a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe has you covered. As the savory scent of bacon fills your home, you’ll be transported back to cherished memories of Grandma’s kitchen on rainy days, where every spoonful was a treat.

Quick Benefits

• Velvety, thick texture achieved by whisking flour smoothly with half-and-half
• Flexibility with choice of broth, allowing for personal flavor preference
• Richness and depth from using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
• Flavorful garnish with crumbled bacon, enhancing the overall taste

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe Recipe

• The creamy potato bacon soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly nights and family gatherings, filling your kitchen with cozy aromas.
• Each spoonful brings you the perfect combination of creamy potatoes, salty bacon, and plenty of cheesy goodness, satisfying all your comfort food cravings.
• Kids love the melty cheese topping, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters and a go-to recipe for easy wins at home.
• The soup strikes a perfect balance between indulgent and simple, making regular weeknights feel special and memorable.
• You can customize the recipe by using smoked gouda for a fun twist or swapping ingredients like turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a personalized touch.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, and reheating gently on the stove maintains the creamy texture.
• The topping bar idea with extra bacon, chives, and hot sauce allows everyone to customize their bowl, perfect for a party or family gathering.
• The soup is a crowd favorite in the US, especially in cold weather regions, and has received rave reviews at potlucks and family get-togethers.
• With simple additions like fresh corn kernels, spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers, you can elevate the soup with seasonal flavors and ingredients.
• Freezing portions of the soup without the cheese and half-and-half allows for easy reheating with the addition of these ingredients for a creamy and smooth texture.
• Whether served with crusty bread, fresh rolls, or a simple green salad on the side, this soup warms hearts and fills bellies, making it a satisfying and beloved dinner option.

Ingredients for Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe

Soup Base

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 5–7 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 3 cups (710 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth

Flavor Enhancers

• 6–8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled, some reserved for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Creamy Finish

• 2 cups (475 ml) half-and-half or a 50/50 blend of milk and heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups (340 grams) shredded cheese, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack blend

For Serving

• Reserved crumbled bacon
• Additional shredded cheese
• Fresh chives or sliced green onions, finely chopped

Pro Tips for Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe

For a velvety and thick texture, make sure to whisk the flour smoothly with the half-and-half before adding it to the pot. This step will help prevent any lumps and ensure a creamy consistency.

Both low-sodium vegetable broth and chicken broth work well in this recipe, so choose the one that complements your taste preferences. The broth choice can influence the overall flavor profile of the soup.

While cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharp flavor, consider using a blend of cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra depth and richness. Don’t forget to crumble some bacon into the soup for added flavor and reserve some for garnishing to give your soup that extra punch.

How to Make Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Assemble Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add diced potatoes, onion, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and broth to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine.

Step 2: Cook Until Potatoes Are Tender

Cook covered on low for approximately 6 hours, or on high for about 3 hours, until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cream Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together half-and-half and flour until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese, then add this mixture to the slow cooker and mix well.

Step 4: Simmer to Finish

Cook with the lid on, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Portion soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon, cheese, and chopped chives or green onions.

Storage Tips

To store the finished creamy potato bacon soup, it is essential to let the leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop. If the soup thickens upon reheating, simply add a splash of milk or broth to adjust the consistency back to your liking.

For longer-term storage, if you wish to freeze the soup, prepare it as directed but without adding the cheese and half-and-half. Once cooled, portion the soup and freeze it. When reheating the frozen soup, add in the cheese and half-and-half towards the end of the reheating process to maintain a creamy and smooth texture without compromising the flavor. This method allows you to enjoy this comforting dish at a later time while preserving its delicious qualities.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this creamy potato bacon soup with dietary restrictions or preferences in mind, consider substituting the bacon with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a pork-free option. Additionally, you can make the soup celiac-friendly by using gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Feel free to experiment with different types of melting cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic cheddar and Monterey Jack blend.

To enhance the flavors of this soup and add seasonal variety, consider incorporating additional ingredients like fresh corn kernels in late summer for sweetness, spinach or kale for winter greens, or roasted red peppers in autumn for extra color and depth. These additions can elevate the dish and provide a different culinary experience each time you make it. Remember that you can freeze portions of the soup for later consumption; simply omit the cheese and half-and-half, cool the soup before freezing, and add them back in during reheating for a creamy and smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving idea, set up a toppings bar with extra crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, chopped chives, and hot sauce. Let your guests customize their creamy potato bacon soup with their favorite toppings for a personalized touch.

For a cozy and rustic presentation, serve the creamy potato bacon soup in individual bread bowls. Hollow out small round loaves of bread, ladle the soup into each bowl, and top with a sprinkle of extra cheese and crispy bacon bits. This not only adds a comforting element but also reduces the dishes to wash afterward, making it perfect for a casual family dinner.

FAQs for Creamy Bacon Potato Soup Recipe

Can I use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon instead of pork bacon?

Yes, you can swap bacon for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon if you wish to avoid pork. This substitution will still provide a flavorful element to the soup.

How should I store leftovers of this creamy potato bacon soup?

Let leftovers cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. The soup can be kept in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, if the soup becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk or broth as it warms.

What cheese options can I use in this soup?

Cheddar cheese not only melts well but also adds sharpness to the soup. You can also try a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra depth and richness in flavor.

Can I freeze this creamy potato bacon soup?

To freeze the soup, prepare it as written but leave out the cheese and half-and-half. Once cooled, freeze the soup in portions. When reheating, add the cheese and half-and-half towards the end to maintain a creamy and smooth texture without altering the flavor.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Creamy Potato Bacon Soup becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and comfort to your table on chilly nights. This soup truly embodies the essence of cozy, homemade goodness with its rich flavors and hearty textures. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply craving a bowl of creamy deliciousness after a long day, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this Creamy Potato Bacon Soup your own by experimenting with different cheeses, toppings, or seasonal additions. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your preferences. Share this soup with loved ones, savor the memories it evokes, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of a homemade meal that brings people together. Let the aroma of bacon and cheese fill your kitchen as you create a dish that nourishes both body and soul.