Every time I make this Potato and Bacon Soup, it reminds me of cozy evenings gathered around the kitchen table with family. The aroma of simmering potatoes and crispy bacon fills my home with a warm embrace that draws everyone in, a scent so comforting that it has the power to turn even the pickiest eaters into soup aficionados. When I serve it, I can already picture the smiles on my loved ones' faces as they savor each rich spoonful. I know once you try it, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort that keeps my heart full.
How to make Potato and Bacon Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced: The heart of the soup! You want a starchy variety, like Russet, for that creamy texture.
- 4 strips of bacon, chopped: This adds a smoky flavor that makes the soup irresistible.
- 1 onion, diced: So essential for building that base flavor.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Choose low-sodium if you watch your salt, or homemade if you have some! It infuses the soup with rich flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that velvety, creamy finish that makes every sip feel like a hug.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple, but oh so important for bringing all the flavors together.
- Chives for garnish: Just a sprinkle adds color and freshness; trust me!
Cooking Steps
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Prepare Your Ingredients: It’s always easier to have everything ready before you start cooking! Dice your potatoes and onion, and chop the bacon into small pieces. Having lovely fresh ingredients makes all the difference, don’t you think?
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Let it cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. The delightful smell that fills your kitchen during this step will pull everyone in. I always giggle when I hear the children trying to sneak a piece!
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Sauté the Onion: Once the bacon is crispy, add the diced onion to the pot. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. This builds a lovely foundation of flavor. It’s one of those moments where the kitchen truly feels like home.
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Add the Potatoes: Now comes the star of the show! Add your diced potatoes to the pot and stir gently to combine everything.
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Pour in the Chicken Broth: Next, add the chicken broth. Give it a good stir and bring it to a boil. I always use low-sodium broth, so I can control the salt level better. It’s all about balance, right?
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Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. The bubbling sound is like a lullaby, soothing and warm.
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Mash the Potatoes: I like to partially mash the potatoes with a potato masher right in the pot. This gives the soup an incredible thickness while still leaving some chunks for texture. It’s one of my favorite parts!
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Stir in the Heavy Cream: Now, pour in that rich heavy cream and stir well. It transforms the soup into something magical. Just wait until you taste this step!
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Season to Perfection: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. I always encourage you to do a little taste test at this stage—you might need a dash more depending on your personal preference!
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. They add a beautiful pop of color and flavor. Just imagine how lovely it looks on your table!
Why I Love Making This Dish
Oh, where do I begin? This Potato and Bacon Soup is one of those recipes that's close to my heart. It’s simple, yet so rich in flavor and nostalgia. I’ve been making this soup for family gatherings and cozy dinners for years. There’s something truly special about a dish that warms both the body and the soul, isn’t there?
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, a large pot is a must! I prefer my trusty Dutch oven, which holds heat well and cooks evenly. You’ll also need a potato masher. Trust me, this tool is a game-changer for achieving that perfect creamy texture without completely pulverizing your potatoes!
Tips for Perfect Results
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Crisp Up the Bacon: If you’re a bacon lover like me, try cooking the bacon until it’s extra crispy. You can even save some crispy pieces to sprinkle on top when serving. It adds that extra crunch!
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Don’t Rush the Simmer: Simmering allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully, so don’t rush this step!
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Creamy to Your Taste: If you want it creamier, feel free to add more cream! I’ve been known to splash in a bit more when I’m feeling indulgent.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This hearty soup is perfect all on its own, but if you want to elevate the meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a simple side salad. A slice of sourdough bread is excellent for dipping and will make your meal feel truly complete!
Leftovers
I always make sure to make a little extra because this soup stores beautifully! If you have leftovers, simply let the soup cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash more broth or cream, as it thickens as it sits. I usually heat it gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally.
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of potatoes? Absolutely! While I recommend starchy potatoes like Russets for their creaminess, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes or even red potatoes. Just keep in mind that waxy potatoes won’t give you the same texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? You can easily replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You might miss out on that smoky flavor, but you could add a dash of smoked paprika for a similar effect!
Can I freeze the soup? Yes! This soup does freeze well. Just make sure to let it cool entirely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’s perfect for those days when you want a warm meal but don’t feel like cooking!
This Potato and Bacon Soup has become a cherished recipe in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it. I promise it will fill your home with delightful warmth and have your family asking for seconds. The smiles you’ll receive from your loved ones will be worth every minute spent making it. After all, nothing brings people together quite like a bowl of cozy soup! Let me know how it turns out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!