It all started on a chilly evening. I was looking for a meal that could warm us from the inside out and bring everyone to the table with smiles. That’s when I began my quest to perfect the most comforting Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits imaginable. I wanted something that felt like a warm hug in a bowl.

I remember experimenting with different spices, trying to find the perfect balance that would make my family ask for seconds (and thirds!). It wasn’t always smooth sailing; there were moments of “almost, but not quite.” But with each attempt, I learned something new about layering flavors and creating a symphony of tastes that would make this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits a family favorite.

The secret, I discovered, was in the quality of the ingredients and a few simple techniques that unlocked the true potential of each flavor. Now, I want to share this flavorful Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits experience with you, fellow home cooks seeking genuine, satisfying meals. Let’s bring some warmth and smiles to your kitchen too!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need

Trust me, this ingredient list focuses on quality over quantity for authentic flavors! Using fresh ingredients can really enhance the flavor of any dish. Experiment with different types of cheese for garnish!

6 slices bacon, cut into small pieces: For the best flavor in your Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits, choose thick-cut bacon. The smoky aroma fills the kitchen!
1 medium yellow onion, diced: You’ll find the freshest onions for this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits at your local farmer’s market.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes a huge difference. This Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits proves that authentic flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices.
4 cups chicken broth: I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup. This is a great trick for customizing flavor!
1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed: These potatoes have a creamy texture that works wonderfully in this soup. My family loves when I add this extra touch to our Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits.
1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup extra rich and comforting. I highly recommend using it!
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a touch of tanginess that balances the richness.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the soup.
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is best!
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives: For garnish, adding a pop of fresh flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For garnish, because who doesn’t love cheese?

Let’s Create This Together!

Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot. In my kitchen, this flavorful Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits typically takes about 8-10 minutes to crisp the bacon perfectly. Don’t discard that bacon fat – it’s liquid gold!
Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot with the reserved bacon fat and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Perfect time to appreciate the aromatic transformation! You’ll notice the onions become translucent and release their sweet aroma.
Make a roux: Melt the butter into the pot with the onion and garlic. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms. This step is important for thickening the soup, so don’t rush it! Your Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits should fill the kitchen with amazing aromas by now.
Add the broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Don’t be surprised if your Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits develops a slightly thicker consistency as you add the broth. That’s exactly what we want!
Add the potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and bring back to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Here’s where I used to miss a key step with my Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits – learn from my experience! Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender before moving on.
Blend the soup (optional): For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Leave some chunks for texture, or blend until completely smooth, depending on your preference. While your Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits is developing these flavors, take a moment to appreciate creating something special for your family! I like to leave mine a little chunky.
Stir in the cream and sour cream: Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream until well combined. Heat through, but do not boil. This is the step that makes it creamy potato bacon soup.
Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crispy bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. This loaded potato soup recipe is always a hit!

Here’s a family-tested technique: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the soup for a subtle warmth! Also, if you like a kick, a dash of cayenne pepper really adds depth. This homemade potato soup with bacon is a hearty and satisfying meal.

How We Love to Enjoy This!

The family gathers quickly when this aromatic Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits appears with crusty bread and a simple side salad. The kids love dipping their bread into the soup, and my husband always asks for extra bacon bits on top. It’s the little things that make mealtime special.

This Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits is perfect for those evenings when we want something truly satisfying! It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or serve during holiday gatherings. Everyone always raves about the creamy texture and the delicious combination of flavors.

For presentation, I like to drizzle a little bit of olive oil over the top of each bowl and sprinkle with extra chives. It adds a touch of elegance to this comforting dish. I also love pairing this with a grilled cheese sandwich for dipping! If you’re looking for a similar side, check out these Halloween Swirl Oreo Cream Cheese Brownies for a tasty dessert.

Leftovers are great the next day! Sometimes, I’ll even use leftover potato soup as a base for a creamy pasta sauce. Don’t waste it! In the fall, I add roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist. It’s amazing how versatile this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits can be.

This creamy potato bacon soup reminds me of another family favorite: Slow Cooker Potato-Bacon Soup Recipe, a similar recipe for busy days!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Does this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits really satisfy hearty appetites?

Absolutely! The combination of potatoes, bacon, and creamy broth makes it incredibly filling. It’s a meal in itself, but you can always add a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete experience. My husband, who has a huge appetite, always says it hits the spot!

What if someone in my family prefers milder flavors in their Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits?

No problem at all! You can easily adjust the amount of bacon and spices to suit your family’s preferences. For a milder flavor, use less bacon or opt for turkey bacon. You can also reduce the amount of garlic or omit the black pepper.

How can I prepare this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits ahead for busy weeks?

This soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just be sure to add the crispy bacon bits and cheese right before serving to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze this creamy potato bacon soup?

Yes, you can! However, the texture of the soup may change slightly after freezing and thawing. The cream and sour cream can sometimes separate, so it’s best to freeze the soup before adding those ingredients. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then stir in the cream and sour cream while reheating.

What kind of potatoes work best in this easy potato soup bacon?

I prefer Yukon gold potatoes because of their creamy texture, but you can also use Russet potatoes or red potatoes. Russets will give you a slightly thicker soup, while red potatoes will hold their shape a bit better.

Is it possible to make this cheesy potato soup with bacon in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just cook the bacon first and then add all the ingredients (except the cream and sour cream) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. Then, stir in the cream and sour cream before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to this Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits?

Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or corn to this soup. Just add them along with the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe.

This easy potato soup bacon is a simple and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. For more genuine cooking ideas for family meals, explore these Halloween No-Bake Icebox Cake.

Final Kitchen Wisdom

This Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring my family together around the table, sharing laughter and creating memories. It supports my family’s goal of enjoying authentic, flavorful meals that nourish both body and soul.

My Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits Flavor Secrets:

Bacon Fat is Your Friend: Don’t discard that bacon fat! It adds so much flavor to the soup.
Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: A sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley really brightens up the flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can make the soup gluey. Cook them until they’re just fork-tender.

Family-Tested Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits Variations:

Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
Cheesy Potato Soup: Add extra cheddar cheese or try using a different type of cheese, like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Top with sour cream, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a truly indulgent experience.

My daughter prefers the cheesy version, while my son loves the spicy one. My husband is happy with any version as long as it has plenty of bacon! I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Experiment with different flavors and find what your family loves best.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create your own signature version of hearty Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits. May your kitchen be filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aroma of comforting, authentic flavors! You can also try these Halloween Blondies as a dessert pairing. Keep cooking, fellow flavor seekers! This homemade potato soup with bacon is a must try recipe.

Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Bits

Print Recipe

Warm up with this creamy potato soup, loaded with tender potatoes and topped with crispy bacon bits. It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day!

Author: Savannah Rose
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

6 slices bacon, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Sour cream, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot.
Add olive oil to the pot with the bacon grease. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the potatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Do not boil.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream (if desired).
Serve immediately.

Notes

For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the potatoes before adding the cream. You can also add cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.