Creamy Potato Bacon Soup: A Comfort Food Classic
Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of goodness? Look no further than this creamy potato bacon soup recipe. This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend brunch. It's surprisingly easy to make, yet boasts a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Let's dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. Here's what you'll need to gather:
- 1 pound bacon, diced (the star of the show!)
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced (Russet or Yukon Gold work best)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 2 cups milk (or cream for an extra rich soup)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your perfect bowl of potato bacon soup:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, reserving the bacon grease in the pot. Set aside the cooked bacon; we'll add it back later!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the butter to the pot with the bacon grease. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend carefully, venting the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
Step 5: Stir in Milk and Seasoning
Stir in the milk (or cream), thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat through, but do not boil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Stir in the crispy bacon you reserved earlier. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting classic!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Cheese please: Top with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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This recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
