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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the butter to the bacon grease. Once melted, sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Bacon
- Stir in the heavy cream and most of the crispy bacon (reserve some for garnish). Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, adjusting to your taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and the reserved bacon. Serve warm with crusty bread or biscuits for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips for the Perfect Potato and Bacon Soup
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon low and slow for perfect crispiness without burning.
- Potato Choice: Use starchy potatoes like Russet for a creamier texture or Yukon Gold for a buttery flavor.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or immersion blender before serving.
- Flavor Boost: Add shredded cheddar cheese, a pinch of cayenne, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for extra flavor.
Make It Your Own
This classic soup is versatile and easy to customize:
- Add Veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or corn for a more hearty and colorful soup.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of cream for a lighter, dairy-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Potato and Bacon Soup with any of the following:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden or Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Biscuits: Homemade biscuits are a perfect pairing for this comforting dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.
- Freeze: While potatoes can become grainy after freezing, you can freeze this soup without the cream and add it when reheating.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
There’s nothing more satisfying than a bowl of Potato and Bacon Soup. The creamy, velvety texture combined with smoky bacon and tender potatoes creates the ultimate comfort food experience. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy meal or serving it to guests, this soup is sure to impress. One spoonful of this warm, hearty goodness will have you coming back for more!
Final Thoughts
Bring warmth and comfort to your table with this Potato and Bacon Soup. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy potatoes and crispy bacon in every bite!
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