Are you ready to experience the most soul-warming, decadent soup that will instantly transport you to culinary heaven? This Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup is not just a recipe – it's a magical blend of crispy bacon, velvety potatoes, and rich cream that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food experience. Imagine diving your spoon into a bowl of pure comfort, where each bite promises a perfect balance of creamy texture and smoky bacon flavor that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping potatoes into 1-inch cubes, finely dicing the onion, and cutting bacon into small pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown, rendering out the fat. Remove bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add chopped onions to the bacon drippings and sauté until translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat with the bacon fat and onions. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to slightly brown the potato edges.
- Pour chicken broth into the pot, ensuring potatoes are fully covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon to partially mash some potatoes, creating a thicker, creamier texture while leaving some chunks intact.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream, allowing the soup to warm through without boiling.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Ladle soup into serving bowls, top with reserved crispy bacon pieces and freshly chopped chives.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete and comforting meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best creamy texture and optimal thickening.
- Bacon Technique: Cook bacon slowly to render maximum fat and achieve that perfect crispy texture. Save some crispy bits for topping to add a delightful crunch.
- Don't Overcook the Cream: Add heavy cream at the end and heat gently to prevent separation or curdling.
- Texture Matters: Partially mash some potatoes to create a thick, creamy base while leaving some chunks for a rustic feel.
- Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as you cook, remembering that bacon adds saltiness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh chives or green onions add a pop of color and fresh flavor to your finished soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
