Potato and bacon soup is a hearty, comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table, no matter the season. This particular recipe is a family favorite for good reason: the creamy texture, smoky bacon, and rich flavors make it irresistible, even to the pickiest of eaters. Loaded with potatoes, vegetables, and a blend of cheeses, this soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through each step of the process, ensuring that you achieve the perfect bowl of potato and bacon soup. The best part? This recipe is easy to prepare and designed to maximize flavor with minimal effort. Let’s get started on making this delicious soup that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Perfect Potato and Bacon Soup
To ensure your soup is flavorful, creamy, and satisfying, it’s essential to use fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3.5 cups chicken broth: This provides a savory base and enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
- 4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced (approximately 3–4 cups): Russet potatoes are ideal for soups because they break down nicely, adding a creamy texture.
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy contrast to the creamy ingredients, balancing the flavors.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Essential for flavor; it adds sweetness and aroma.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Provides a hint of sweetness and extra nutrition.
- 1 cup diced celery: Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley: Brings subtle earthiness to the soup.
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the tomatoes with a mild, herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds heartiness and depth.
- 1 package (12 ounces) bacon, cooked and chopped: Smoky, crispy bacon enhances every spoonful.
- 3 tablespoons butter: For a rich and velvety soup base.
- 1/4 cup flour (can use gluten-free 1:1 for gluten-free option): Acts as a thickener.
- 2 cups half and half: Creamy and luxurious, it’s essential for the soup’s smooth texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese: Cheese provides both flavor and creaminess.
- Optional garnish: Green onions and reserved chopped bacon.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Potato and Bacon Soup
1. Start by Preparing the Base
In a slow cooker, combine the following ingredients: chicken broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, parsley, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to ensure the seasonings are well mixed throughout.
- Slow Cooker Settings: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The low, slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, flavorful base.
2. Prepare the Bacon and Beef
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the ground beef and bacon:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a pan, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then add the beef to the slow cooker. This adds a hearty element to the soup and complements the bacon’s smokiness.
- Cook and Chop the Bacon: Fry the bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces. For a quicker, mess-free method, you can also bake the bacon in the oven while the soup cooks. Once done, add half of the bacon to the slow cooker, reserving the other half for garnish.
3. Thicken the Soup Base
- In the same pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add 1/4 cup of flour, whisking constantly until combined to form a roux. Continue whisking until the roux thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of half and half, continuing to whisk. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Once the roux is ready, carefully pour it into the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to combine, creating a creamy, rich base for the soup.
4. Add the Cheese for Extra Creaminess
Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese to the soup. Stir well, cover the slow cooker, and allow the cheese to melt. After a few minutes, give it another good stir to fully incorporate the cheese into the soup.
5. Final Touches and Garnishing
Before serving, stir the soup one last time to ensure even consistency. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with green onions and reserved bacon for an extra burst of flavor and color. The garnishes add a fresh, crispy contrast to the creamy soup.
Why This Potato and Bacon Soup Will Become Your Family’s New Favorite
Perfect Balance of Texture and Flavor
This soup is the perfect blend of textures—from the creaminess of the potatoes and half and half, to the slight crunch of celery, to the crisp bacon on top. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, creating a symphony of savory, smoky, and creamy tastes.
Easy Slow Cooker Recipe
Using a slow cooker not only simplifies the process but also allows for a deeper, more developed flavor. The ingredients have hours to meld together, which results in a comforting, homestyle taste that traditional stovetop cooking just can’t replicate.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
This potato and bacon soup doesn’t just taste good; it’s packed with wholesome ingredients. Potatoes, carrots, celery, and tomatoes offer essential vitamins and minerals, while the protein from ground beef and bacon makes it filling and satisfying. A sprinkle of cheddar cheese adds a delicious dose of calcium.
Versatile and Customizable
This recipe is versatile enough for customization based on dietary needs. Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version or try using different cheese varieties for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions for Potato and Bacon Soup
To make this meal complete, consider pairing your potato and bacon soup with the following sides:
- Freshly Baked Bread: Warm bread or rolls are ideal for dipping and soaking up the creamy soup.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a classic pairing, try a grilled cheese sandwich with sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Potato and Bacon Soup
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as the cream-based soup may separate upon thawing.
Final Thoughts on This Hearty Potato and Bacon Soup
This potato and bacon soup recipe is designed to be the ultimate comfort food, satisfying everyone from kids to adults with its rich, savory flavors. The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a chilly winter evening or as a hearty meal prep option, this soup is bound to be a hit.