Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon: The Ultimate Comfort in a Bowl

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
   • Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:
   • Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make It Creamy:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux.
   • Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth mixture. Once thickened, pour this into the soup pot.
5. Blend and Finish:
   • Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup to achieve your desired consistency. Leave some potato chunks for texture, or blend it completely for a smoother soup.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
6. Add the Bacon:
   • Stir in half of the cooked bacon, reserving the rest for garnish. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and the reserved crispy bacon. Serve warm and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: The creamy base paired with crispy bacon creates a perfect balance of comfort and indulgence.
• Easy to Make: This one-pot recipe is straightforward and comes together in under an hour.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies like carrots or celery, or swap the bacon for turkey bacon to suit your preferences.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Potato Soup

• Pick the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
• Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon slowly over medium heat to achieve perfectly crispy bits.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: Adding the roux ensures your soup thickens evenly and has a silky smooth consistency.
• Make Ahead: The flavors deepen overnight, making this soup an excellent choice for meal prep.