Introduction:
Warm, creamy, and oh-so-comforting, Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any season. Packed with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, this hearty soup is a family favorite. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual dinner gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon: In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pot.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Add potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the roux: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream until smooth and thickened.
- Combine and blend: Add the roux to the soup and stir to combine. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup slightly to reach your desired consistency—leave some chunks for texture.
- Add cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and an extra sprinkle of cheese if desired.
Description:
This Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup is the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the hearty potatoes, while crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. It’s a soul-warming dish that delivers comfort in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Calcium: 15% of daily recommended intake
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Dairy-based soups can separate when frozen, but you can freeze it before adding the cheese and cream. Add these ingredients when reheating.
3. What kind of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a creamier consistency.
Recommendations:
- Pair this soup with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced dinner.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Bacon Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for warming up on a cold day or indulging in a cheesy delight. Simple to make yet rich in flavor, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whip up a batch today and savor the ultimate comfort in a bowl!