Easy potato bacon soup with cheddar cheese
There’s nothing like a big bowl of creamy potato bacon soup to warm you up after a chilly day, is there? Whether you’re a busy parent trying to make dinner, a food lover seeking comfort, or someone who just loves the crispy, salty goodness of bacon, this recipe is here to make your heart and stomach happy. Not only is this soup hearty and packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, and believe me, it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to keep coming back to.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
Imagine walking into your kitchen after a long day, ready to put together something quick but delicious. That’s exactly where this creamy potato bacon soup comes in. You get the perfect combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and just the right amount of seasoning to make each bite irresistible. It’s the type of comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just need a filling meal to enjoy on your own.
Quick Overview of the Recipe and Its Benefits
This potato bacon chowder is not only delicious but versatile. You can make it in under an hour, and it’s great for meal prep, leftovers, or serving at family gatherings. Packed with flavor, nutrients from potatoes, and a little indulgence from bacon, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s adaptable for different dietary needs and can be customized to your preferences.
Now, let’s dive into what you need to make this hearty bacon potato soup that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Potato Bacon Soup
To get started, here’s what you’ll need to make your potato bacon soup.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 8 slices |
| Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) | 4 medium potatoes |
| Onion | 1 medium onion |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 4 cups |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley (optional) | For garnish |
These ingredients are the heart of the recipe. Simple, easy-to-find, and full of flavor.
Substitutes for Key Ingredients (if applicable)
Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some quick substitutes:
- Bacon: If you prefer turkey bacon or a vegetarian option, you can use either for a leaner version or a vegetarian twist. For an even richer flavor, try pancetta.
- Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute with whole milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to switch things up with mozzarella, gouda, or a spicy pepper jack if you want to add some heat.
Equipment Needed
Essential Tools for Making Potato Bacon Soup
Let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to bring this recipe to life. Thankfully, you don’t need anything fancy, just the basics.
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is essential for cooking the soup. It allows for even heating and is perfect for simmering the potatoes and broth.
- Cutting Board & Knife: You’ll need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to chop the vegetables and bacon.
- Ladle & Stirring Spoon: For mixing the soup as it simmers and serving it up.
Optional Equipment for Enhanced Results
- Immersion Blender: If you like your soup extra smooth, an immersion blender is fantastic for blending the soup directly in the pot without the mess.
- Bacon Cooker: If you want perfectly crispy bacon without the grease splatter, using a bacon cooker (or an oven) can help make the bacon crisp without much hassle.
What to Look for in Equipment
For a perfect potato bacon soup, you’ll want a heavy-duty pot or Dutch oven that can maintain consistent heat. A non-stick pan is great for cooking the bacon without it sticking, and using a sharp chef’s knife will make cutting the potatoes and veggies a breeze. Don’t forget to use a ladle to serve the soup—it keeps the serving clean and effortless!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s walk through how to make this delicious creamy bacon potato soup from scratch.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by frying up the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Let the bacon crisp up—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add butter and sauté the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The smell is going to be amazing—trust me.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Now, toss in the chopped potatoes and pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Bring the soup to a simmer, covering the pot partially. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
If you like a thicker, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until smooth. This step is optional, but it gives the soup a silky texture without being overly thick. For a chunkier version, skip this step.
Step 5: Add the Cream, Cheese, and Bacon
Add the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Stir everything together until the cheese melts into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. And there you have it—a perfect bowl of potato bacon soup!
Tips & Tricks for Success
Time of Cooking
If you’re short on time, you can speed up the process by using a pressure cooker or slow cooker. For a slow cooker, toss all the ingredients in and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
How to Make Potato Bacon Soup Even Better
Want to elevate your bacon potato soup? Try adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor. You can also add some sour cream for extra creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Make sure not to cook the potatoes too long. You want them tender but not mushy.
- Not Using Enough Bacon: The bacon is the star of the show, so be generous with it! Too little and you won’t get that crispy bacon crunch in every bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Potato Bacon Soup
If you’re in a rush, skip blending the soup. You can also use pre-cooked bacon or even a bacon substitute to cut down on prep time.
Variations and Substitutes
Potato Bacon Soup Variations for Different Diets
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your broth and cream to ensure there’s no gluten content.
- Keto-Friendly: If you’re on a keto diet, replace the potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb option.
- Vegetarian: Simply swap out the bacon for mushrooms or a plant-based bacon alternative.
Creative Twists to Try with Potato Bacon Soup
- Add a bit of green onion for a fresh crunch.
- Throw in some spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- If you like heat, try adding jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
How to Serve Potato Bacon Soup
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Potato Bacon Soup
- Garlic bread: A classic choice that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the soup.
- Side salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy dressing can balance the richness of the soup.
Serving Suggestions for Occasions/Meals
- Family Dinner: Perfect for a cozy family meal.
- Holiday Feast: Serve it as a starter at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
- Game Day: It’s a great soup to serve during the big game—pair it with some chips and dip!
Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving
Each serving of potato bacon soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cream and cheese you use. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal without going overboard.
Other Key Nutrients
- Protein: About 10g per serving (mainly from bacon and cheese).
- Fiber: Around 5g per serving from the potatoes and vegetables.
- Fat: Approximately 20g per serving, primarily from the cream and bacon.
How to Make Potato Bacon Soup Healthier
To make this soup a bit lighter, consider using reduced-fat cream or swapping in half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the bacon and add more vegetables.
Conclusion
Why You’ll Love This Potato Bacon Soup
This potato bacon soup is a must-try! It’s cozy, creamy, and packed with savory flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a bowl of comfort food, this recipe will hit the spot every time.
Encourage Readers to Try and Share the Recipe
Now that you’ve got all the details, it’s time to make this hearty soup! Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family—this is the kind of recipe that everyone will love.
Let Us Know How It Turned Out in the Comments!
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FAQs
1. Can I make potato bacon soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream in potato bacon soup?
You can substitute with whole milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free option like coconut milk.
3. How do I thicken my potato bacon soup?
If you like a thicker soup, try blending some of the potatoes or adding a little cornstarch mixed with water.
4. Can I add vegetables to potato bacon soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, spinach, or even corn to make the soup more hearty and nutritious.
5. How do I store leftover potato bacon soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.