Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy bacon soup recipe is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. It’s packed with smoky bacon flavor, rich creaminess, and just the right touch of savory herbs. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh chives, bacon crumbles
Instructions:
Step 1: The Bacon Base
Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pot. Set the crispy bacon aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon fat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a delicious base for your soup, adding depth of flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the chicken broth, add the thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This slow simmering is key to developing rich and flavorful homemade cooking.
Step 4: Creamy Perfection
Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes, or until heated through. Do not boil, as this can cause the cream to curdle. Season with salt to taste. Remember, you can always add more salt, but you can’t take it away!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon pieces and fresh chives, if desired. This creamy bacon soup is best served hot and fresh. It’s the ultimate comfort food for those chilly evenings, making it one of the best recipes out there for satisfying your cravings.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of bacon fat and butter to sauté the vegetables.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option (omit the bacon, or use a vegetarian bacon substitute).
- Add other vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or mushrooms for a heartier soup.
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cream.
- Make it a complete meal by serving with crusty bread for dipping.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on serving size and ingredients)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This delicious and easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a delightful addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!