Potato and Bacon Soup – Don’t LOSE this Recipe 

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:

• Begin by cooking the chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally, cooking the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic. The combination of onion and garlic will create a delicious aromatic base for the soup.

3. Cook the Potatoes:

• Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring them with the onions and garlic. Cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb some of the bacon flavor.
• Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the potatoes are covered by the liquid. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

4. Blend the Soup (Optional):

• For a smooth and creamy texture, you can blend part or all of the soup. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot or transfer about half of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot. This step is optional, depending on how creamy you prefer your soup. Blending the soup will give it a velvety consistency, while leaving it chunky will preserve the rustic texture.

5. Add the Cream and Seasonings:

• Once the potatoes are cooked and the soup has reached your desired consistency, stir in the heavy cream (and milk if using). This will add the rich creaminess that makes the soup so comforting.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference, as the bacon will already add some saltiness to the soup.

6. Add the Bacon Back In:

• Stir in the crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier. This will add a final layer of smoky, savory goodness to the soup.

7. Simmer and Serve:

• Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color. For an extra indulgence, top with shredded cheese and maybe even a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Why You’ll LOVE This Potato and Bacon Soup:

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to make this soup, yet it’s packed with flavor. The smoky bacon, creamy potatoes, and savory broth create a comforting combination that’s hard to beat.
2. Versatile: This soup is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the creaminess by using more or less heavy cream, add in extra vegetables like carrots or leeks for added texture, or even top it with crumbled crackers or crunchy bacon bits for extra texture.
3. Perfect for All Seasons: While it’s perfect for chilly fall and winter days, Potato and Bacon Soup is delicious year-round. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it a great choice for a cozy lunch or dinner no matter the weather.
4. Comforting and Filling: Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a bowl of warmth after a long day, this soup will fill you up and make you feel at ease. The combination of creamy potatoes and crispy bacon is pure comfort in a bowl.
5. Kid-Friendly: This soup is a hit with kids, thanks to its mild flavor and creamy texture. You can even make it extra fun by letting them sprinkle their own cheese or bacon bits on top!

Tips for Success:

• Use the Right Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for this soup, as they become tender and creamy when cooked. Avoid waxy potatoes, like red potatoes, as they won’t break down as easily to create that velvety texture.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to elevate the flavor profile. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick, or add garlic powder and onion powder for more depth.
• Make It Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a lower-fat milk, and use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether for a vegetarian option.
• Store Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day!

Final Thoughts:

Potato and Bacon Soup is the kind of recipe that brings comfort with every spoonful. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a go-to for busy nights or when you want something satisfying and warm. Whether you’re curling up on a cold day or hosting a casual dinner, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Don’t lose this recipe! It’s the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. With its creamy texture, smoky bacon, and wholesome ingredients, Potato and Bacon Soup is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.