Creamy Potato Soup With Bacon Recipe

Creamy potato soup is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that will warm you up on the chilliest days. Loaded with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy broth, this hearty soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or serving a large gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe will be a hit. Read on to learn the step-by-step process to make the best creamy potato soup with bacon. Let’s dive into this delicious, satisfying recipe!

What is Creamy Potato Soup?

Creamy potato soup is a hearty, savory dish made with potatoes, vegetables, and a thick, creamy broth. Bacon adds a smoky depth to this classic recipe, but the dish can easily be modified to suit vegetarian or lighter preferences. This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner, served with crusty bread or alongside a fresh salad.

The combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a smooth broth creates an irresistible dish. This recipe walks you through each step, providing tips for substitutions, variations, and serving suggestions to ensure your creamy potato soup is flawless every time.

Ingredients List for Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon (diced)
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 stalks of celery (diced)
• 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (40 grams)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and diced; 907 grams)
• 2 cups whole milk (236 ml)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
• Diced scallions (for topping)
• Bacon pieces (for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some ways you can tweak this creamy potato soup recipe to fit different dietary needs or taste preferences:

Vegetarian Option:

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock. You can also add smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke for that signature smoky flavor. For a more filling option, consider adding a plant-based protein such as cooked lentils or white beans.

Lighter Version:

For a lighter version of this soup, substitute the whole milk with low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk. You can also use turkey bacon in place of pork bacon to reduce the fat content without sacrificing too much flavor.

Gluten-Free:

For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You can also use gluten-free bacon to ensure the entire recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Extra Veggies:

Feel free to add additional vegetables to this recipe. Peas, corn, or even spinach can add extra texture and nutrition to the dish. Adjust the cooking times accordingly so that all the vegetables become tender without overcooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and browned. This should take about 8–10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot and discard the rest.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the reserved bacon fat. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Once the vegetables are softened, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir well. This forms the roux, which will thicken the soup. Cook the flour and vegetable mixture for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add the Chicken Stock and Potatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken stock while stirring to combine it with the roux. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the peeled and diced potatoes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Stir in the Milk

Once the potatoes are cooked, gently stir in the whole milk. Continue cooking the soup over low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the milk to heat through without boiling.

Step 6: Season the Soup

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the bacon and chicken stock may already add some saltiness, so taste the soup before adding more seasoning.

Step 7: Blend the Soup (Optional)

For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer half of the soup to a blender and puree it before returning it to the pot. This step is optional and depends on your preference for texture.

How to Cook Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking creamy potato soup with bacon is simple when broken down into easy-to-follow steps:

1. Cook the bacon until crispy and remove it from the pot.
2. Sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in the reserved bacon fat.
3. Add flour to form a roux, then pour in the chicken stock and potatoes.
4. Simmer the mixture until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in whole milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Optional: Blend a portion of the soup for a smoother texture.
7. Top with shredded cheese, diced scallions, and bacon pieces before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Vegetables

One common mistake when making potato soup is overcooking the vegetables, particularly the potatoes. Be sure to monitor the potatoes closely after 15 minutes of simmering, as they can turn mushy if cooked too long.

Not Stirring the Roux

When making the roux (the mixture of flour and fat), it's essential to stir constantly to avoid burning. A burnt roux will give the soup a bitter taste, so take care during this step.

Using Too Much Salt

Both bacon and chicken stock can be salty, so it's best to taste your soup before adding additional salt. You can always add more, but it’s difficult to fix an overly salty soup.

Skipping the Toppings

The toppings for creamy potato soup—such as shredded cheese, bacon, and scallions—add texture and additional flavor. Don't skip them! They elevate the overall dish and give it an appealing presentation.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon

Creamy potato soup with bacon can be served as a main course or as a starter. Serve it with crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal. This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh, tangy salad made with vinaigrette dressing, which complements the richness of the soup.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Potato Soup

1. Cheddar Cheese Garnish: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bowl for a cheesy finish.
2. Crispy Bacon Crumbles: Add crispy bacon pieces on top for extra flavor and texture.
3. Diced Scallions: Sprinkle finely chopped scallions for a pop of color and fresh taste.
4. Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, cozy presentation.
5. Sour Cream Swirl: Drizzle a spoonful of sour cream on top and use a toothpick to swirl it into a beautiful design.

Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can make this soup in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding extra milk if the soup becomes too thick.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely and store it in airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Blending Tip: If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip the blending step. For a smoother soup, blend half of the mixture for a creamier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier result.

Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to evaporate some of the liquid. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it.

Q: Can I make this soup dairy-free?
A: Yes! You can substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Q: How long will the leftovers last?
A: Leftover creamy potato soup will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This creamy potato soup with bacon is a rich, hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone. With the perfect balance of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy broth, it's comfort food at its best. Follow the tips and variations provided to customize the soup to your liking, whether you're looking for a vegetarian, lighter, or gluten-free option. Don't forget the delicious toppings that make this dish extra special! Try this recipe today, and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a perfect bowl of creamy potato soup.

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