Description
Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Ingredients
6 slices bacon, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 2 tbsp of bacon grease in the pot.
Sauté onion and garlic in the bacon grease until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth, or mash some of the potatoes for a chunkier texture.
Stir in heavy cream and sour cream. Heat gently but do not boil.
Top each serving with crispy bacon and chopped parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. First, ensure your bacon is diced into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Render it slowly in your pot to maximize the fat. After removing the bacon, check you have about two tablespoons of grease; drain excess or add butter if needed. When sautéing the onion and garlic, cook until fragrant and translucent to build a flavor base. For the potatoes, a consistent dice (about 1/2-inch cubes) ensures they cook evenly. Simmer until they are fork-tender but not mushy. When blending, an immersion blender gives the smoothest result. For a chunky soup, use a potato masher or blend only half. Finally, when adding the creams, keep the heat on low to prevent curdling.
Serving Suggestions
This rich soup is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a heartier presentation, serve it in a bread bowl. Garnish with extra crispy bacon, fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or shredded cheddar cheese. A sprinkle of green onions or chives adds a fresh, colorful finish.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook bacon, sauté aromatics in the grease, simmer potatoes in broth until tender, blend to desired consistency, stir in creams, and garnish with bacon and parsley. The entire process takes about 40 minutes for a comforting, creamy result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, but store it without the final cream addition. Reheat gently and stir in the creams just before serving to maintain texture.
How can I make this soup thicker? For a thicker soup, use a flour slurry (1 tbsp each flour and water) or a cornstarch slurry added during the simmer, or simply add an extra half-cup of diced potatoes.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? You can, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. For best results, use half-and-half or whole milk, and avoid boiling to prevent separation.
Is there a way to make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Cook the bacon separately. Add all ingredients except the creams to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend, then stir in the creams before serving.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. The soup may thicken; thin it with a little broth or milk.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling after adding cream: This causes curdling. Always heat gently.
- Underseasoning: Potatoes absorb salt. Season in layers and taste at the end.
- Over-blending: If using a stand blender, blend in batches and don’t overfill, as hot soup can explode.
- Burning the garlic: Sauté garlic for only 30-60 seconds until fragrant to avoid a bitter taste.
- Using the wrong potato: Starchy potatoes like Russets yield a creamier texture. Waxy potatoes like Red Bliss will hold their shape better for a chunky soup.
Conclusion
This Creamy Potato Bacon Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying dish. Its versatility allows for easy customization, and the straightforward method ensures success even for novice cooks. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality soup that’s perfect for any chilly evening. Enjoy the rich, smoky, and creamy flavors of this classic combination.