- Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup
Introduction
Warm, creamy, and packed with comforting flavors, Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup is a timeless family favorite that’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy weekend lunches. Made with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, onions, and a rich, creamy broth, this hearty soup is simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Every spoonful delivers smoky bacon, soft potatoes, and savory seasonings that make this classic recipe impossible to resist.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy throughout the week, this homemade potato and bacon soup is sure to become a regular on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavor
– Loaded with tender potatoes and crispy bacon
– Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
– Perfect for family dinners and meal prep
– Delicious with crusty bread or biscuits
Ingredients
For the Soup
– 8 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Toppings
– Shredded cheddar cheese
– Chopped green onions
– Sour cream
– Extra crispy bacon
– Fresh parsley
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Add the butter, diced onion, and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth, then add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme.
5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, then simmer for another 5 minutes without boiling.
7. Use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the potatoes for a thicker, creamier texture while leaving plenty of chunks.
8. Stir most of the cooked bacon back into the soup, reserving some for garnish.
9. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with cheddar cheese, green onions, sour cream, parsley, and the reserved crispy bacon.
Tips
– Russet potatoes create a creamy texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes provide a naturally buttery flavor.
– Avoid boiling the soup after adding the milk and cream to prevent curdling.
– For an extra-thick soup, mash more of the potatoes or simmer for a few additional minutes.
– Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup with warm crusty bread, buttery dinner rolls, garlic bread, flaky biscuits, or a crisp green salad. It’s also delicious with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food meal.
Conclusion
Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup is the kind of hearty homemade meal that brings everyone to the table. Creamy, smoky, and loaded with tender potatoes and crispy bacon, it’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving classic comfort food.