Irresistible Potato and Bacon Soup: A Family Favorite Recipe

Potato and bacon soup is a beloved classic that combines rich, creamy textures with savory, smoky flavors. This hearty soup is not only a family favorite, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or preparing a meal for a cozy family dinner, this comforting soup is sure to be a hit.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect potato and bacon soup. We’ll also provide useful tips for customizing the recipe, and offer suggestions for making the dish even more satisfying. Let’s dive in!

Essential Ingredients for the Best Potato and Bacon Soup

This potato and bacon soup recipe is filled with ingredients that work harmoniously to create a flavorful, filling dish. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients:

• 3.5 cups chicken broth: This provides the base of the soup, giving it a rich, savory flavor. For a lighter version, you can opt for vegetable broth.
• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3–4 cups): Potatoes are the heart of this soup, adding creaminess and substance. Russet potatoes are perfect because they break down easily to create a smooth, velvety texture.
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Tomatoes offer a subtle tang that balances the richness of the bacon and cheese, adding depth to the soup.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Onion adds sweetness and depth to the flavor, creating a savory foundation for the soup.
• 1 cup shredded carrots: Carrots contribute natural sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing both the flavor and appearance of the soup.
• 1 cup diced celery: Celery adds crunch and freshness, providing a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes and bacon.
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley: This herb adds a mild, earthy flavor to the soup, helping to elevate the overall taste.
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle, aromatic depth without being overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil brings a touch of warmth and a slight peppery note that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for balancing and enhancing the flavors of the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a mild kick of heat to the soup.
• 1 pound ground beef: Ground beef provides protein and a savory base that adds richness to the soup. For a lighter version, you can substitute it with ground turkey.
• 1 package (12 ounces) bacon, cooked and chopped: Bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture, which takes the soup to the next level.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Butter helps to create a creamy base and adds richness to the soup.
• 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free 1:1 flour if needed): The flour is used to thicken the soup, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
• 2 cups half and half: Half and half brings creaminess and richness, making the soup velvety and indulgent.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese: Cheese is essential for adding creaminess and flavor. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but pepper jack cheese can give the soup a slight kick.
• Garnishes: green onions and reserved chopped bacon: These garnishes provide a fresh crunch and a final burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Potato and Bacon Soup

Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, flavorful potato and bacon soup that your family will love.

Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base in the Slow Cooker

Begin by adding the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, peeled and diced potatoes, diced onion, shredded carrots, diced celery, dried parsley, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to your slow cooker. Stir everything together, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the potatoes will soften, creating the perfect base for your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Cook the Bacon

About 30 minutes before the soup is finished cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease and add the beef to the slow cooker.

In the same skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. You can also bake the bacon in the oven while the soup is cooking, if you prefer. Once the bacon is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the slow cooker, along with the ground beef.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Roux

Next, wipe out the skillet and add 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add 1/4 cup of flour and whisk it in until it forms a smooth paste. Cook the flour and butter mixture for 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t brown.

Slowly whisk in the half and half, and continue to stir for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. This creamy roux will help to give the soup its velvety texture.

Step 4: Combine the Creamy Mixture with the Soup

Pour the creamy roux into the slow cooker with the rest of the soup. Stir everything together until well combined. The flour and half-and-half mixture will thicken the soup, giving it a rich, creamy consistency.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack cheese, if preferred) to the soup and stir until it melts completely. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to fully melt into the soup.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese is fully melted and the soup is hot, give it a final stir and taste it for seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and any reserved chopped bacon for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal that will keep everyone satisfied.

Tips for Perfecting Your Potato and Bacon Soup

• Customize the Vegetables: If you’d like to add more vegetables, consider including parsnips, leeks, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
• Make It Spicy: For a bit of heat, try adding jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup.
• Make it Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and bacon, and substitute with vegetable broth and additional vegetables to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.
• Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors continue to improve as it sits, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup (without the cheese) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add the cheese after thawing for the best texture.

Conclusion

Potato and bacon soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, creamy textures with savory flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a cozy dish to enjoy on a cold day, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With the addition of crispy bacon, hearty potatoes, and flavorful seasonings, this soup is a family favorite that will quickly become a regular on your meal rotation.