The Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to comfort you on a chilly day, and Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is the epitome of comfort food. This rich and flavorful dish combines tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a creamy broth that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a quiet evening or a crowd-pleaser for a family gathering, this soup has you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of making this delicious soup, provide some tips and tricks, and answer common questions to help you master the recipe.

Ingredients Breakdown

Before diving into the preparation, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this Creamy Potato Bacon Soup. Here’s a detailed list to ensure you have everything on hand:

• 6 strips (uncooked) bacon, cut into small pieces
• 3 tablespoons butter, unsalted or salted will work
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1.5 cups or 200g)
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (42g)
• 2 ½ lbs gold potatoes, peeled and diced into pieces no larger than 1” (about 6 large potatoes or 1.15kg)
• 4 cups chicken broth (945ml)
• 2 cups milk (475ml)
• ⅔ cup heavy cream (155ml)
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder
• ⅔ cup sour cream (160g)
• Shredded cheddar cheese, chives, and additional sour cream and bacon for topping (optional)

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

To ensure your Creamy Potato Bacon Soup turns out perfectly, having the right kitchen equipment is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Blender or immersion blender: To puree a portion of the soup, giving it that signature creamy texture.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping the onions, garlic, and potatoes.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and sautéing the ingredients.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Let’s get started on making this delicious Creamy Potato Bacon Soup. Follow these steps closely for the best results:

1. Preparing the Bacon and Onion Base:

• Begin by placing the bacon pieces in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s crisp and browned. This process takes about 5-7 minutes.
• Once the bacon is cooked, remove the pieces and set them aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. This fat will add extra flavor to your soup.

2. Cooking the Potatoes to Perfection:

• Add butter to the pot along with the chopped onion. Cook the onion over medium heat until it becomes tender and translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until the garlic is fragrant.
• Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to ensure there are no lumps. This will help thicken the soup.

3. Blending for Creamy Texture:

• Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and ancho chili powder. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. You can test this by piercing the potatoes with a fork.
• Carefully remove about half of the soup and place it in a blender. Puree until smooth, then return it to the pot. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot, blending until you achieve your desired texture.

4. Final Touches:

• Stir in the sour cream and reserved bacon pieces. Allow the soup to simmer for another 15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Potato Bacon Soup

Achieving the perfect Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is all about balance. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is just right:

• Achieve the Right Consistency: If your soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk until you reach your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to thicken up.
• Adjusting Flavors: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little more salt, pepper, or chili powder can make a big difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking or Undercooking the Potatoes: Potatoes that are undercooked will be hard and unappetizing, while overcooked potatoes can turn mushy and disintegrate into the soup. Keep a close eye on them and test with a fork.
• Balancing Creaminess and Thickness: Too much flour or heavy cream can make the soup overly thick and rich. Stick to the measurements provided, and adjust only if necessary.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key, even for a humble bowl of soup. Here are some ideas to elevate your Creamy Potato Bacon Soup:

• Garnish with Style: Top your soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh chives. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a light, fresh salad or buttery garlic bread.

Recipe Variations

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations:

• Making a Lighter Version: Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to cut down on calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.
• Adding Extra Vegetables or Protein: Add some diced carrots, celery, or even cooked chicken to the soup for extra nutrition and variety.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep:

• Storing Leftover Soup: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating Best Practices: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can This Soup Be Made Ahead of Time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free? To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with olive oil, the milk with a dairy-free alternative, and the heavy cream with coconut cream or another non-dairy substitute. Be sure to choose a dairy-free sour cream as well.

Conclusion

Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering, this soup is a winner. Don’t forget to try out some of the variations and tips provided to make it your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

Print