Description

This Creamy Bacon Potato Soup has been a beloved family favorite for generations—and for good reason! It’s warm, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors. Crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich, cheesy broth come together to create a soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a bowl of something comforting, this soup delivers creamy goodness in every spoonful. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons bacon grease (or butter)
• 1 cup diced onion
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ⅛ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups warm milk
• 1.5 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnishes:
• Chopped green onions
• Additional shredded cheddar cheese
• Extra crispy bacon bits
• Fresh parsley

Preparation Method

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. Reserve 3 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot (or substitute with butter if preferred).

Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon grease over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.

Stir in the flour and dried thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This step helps thicken the soup while adding a subtle depth of flavor.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring the mixture stays smooth. Follow with the warm milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Add the diced potatoes and half of the cooked bacon bits to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Remove the pot from heat and fold in the sour cream, creating a creamy, velvety texture.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve the soup warm, garnished with the remaining bacon, extra cheese, green onions, or fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Tips and Conclusion

✅ For extra creaminess: Blend half of the soup using an immersion blender before adding the cheese and sour cream.

✅ Swap the potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamier texture, while Russets break down for a thicker soup.

✅ Add veggies: Stir in corn kernels, carrots, or celery for added nutrition and texture.

✅ Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.

✅ Lighter option: Use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of whole milk to reduce richness without sacrificing flavor.

This Creamy Bacon Potato Soup is the definition of comfort food—rich, cheesy, and brimming with hearty ingredients. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s a soul-warming dish that will keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a side salad or warm bread, this soup promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Explore more comforting recipes on our site and don’t forget to share how you personalized your bowl. Happy cooking!