Description
Old-fashioned potato and bacon soup is a creamy, comforting dish with smoky bacon and tender potatoes. Easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings, this classic soup is a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Green onions or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Cheese, shredded (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add diced onions and minced garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add Potatoes and Broth – Stir in diced potatoes and pour in broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Make the Roux – In a small pan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for a couple of minutes until golden brown.
- Thicken the Soup – Slowly whisk the roux into the soup, stirring continuously until the broth thickens.
- Incorporate Cream – Pour in heavy cream or milk and stir until combined. Simmer for a few more minutes.
- Season the Soup – Add salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir well.
- Serve and Garnish – Ladle into bowls and top with crispy bacon, chopped green onions or chives, and cheese if desired.
Notes
- Lighter Version – Use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the bacon.
- Cheesy Delight – Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Vegetarian Option – Omit bacon, use vegetable broth, and add smoked paprika for flavor.
- Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style – Serve with sour cream, extra cheese, and crispy fried onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: potato bacon soup, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, homemade soup