Craving a warm and cozy bowl of comfort food? Look no further than this delicious Creamy Potato Soup Bacon recipe! Made with simple ingredients, this hearty soup is perfect for those chilly evenings and will surely become a family favorite.
**Ingredients:**
– 6 strips of crispy bacon
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 4 cups diced potatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside. Reserve a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Crumble the cooked bacon and stir into the soup.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 34g
– Protein: 10g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
– Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if desired.
2. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
– Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
– You can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
– Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I add additional vegetables to this soup?
– Feel free to customize this soup by adding carrots, celery, or leeks for extra flavor and nutrients.
6. Can I use an instant pot to make this soup?
– Yes, you can use an instant pot to cook this soup. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
7. Can I use red potatoes instead of white potatoes?
– Yes, red potatoes can be used in place of white potatoes for a slightly different flavor and texture.
8. Can I use almond milk instead of heavy cream?
– Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream in this recipe.
9. Can I substitute bacon with ham?
– Yes, cooked ham can be substituted for bacon in this soup for a different flavor profile.
10. Can I add cheese to this soup for extra richness?
– Grated cheddar or parmesan cheese can be added to the soup for a cheesy twist.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. For added flavor, sauté some chopped celery along with the onion and garlic.
2. Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
3. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
4. Garnish with crispy fried shallots for added texture.
5. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique taste.
6. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
7. Stir in some cooked and crumbled sausage for a meatier version of the soup.
8. Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for a hearty meal.
9. Drizzle with olive oil before serving for a touch of richness.
10. For a lighter option, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Cook the bacon until extra crispy for maximum flavor and crunch.
2. Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture in the soup.
3. Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for a longer period to develop a deeper flavor.
4. Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste in the soup.
5. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
6. For a velvety smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
7. Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
8. For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork instead of blending completely.
9. Keep the soup warm on a low setting on the stove to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Experiment with different types of bacon for a unique flavor profile in the soup.
Give this Creamy Potato Soup Bacon recipe a try and let us know what you think! Enjoy this hearty and delicious soup with your loved ones. 🥓🍲 #CreamyPotatoSoup #BaconLovers #ComfortFood.