Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness? Look no further! This old-fashioned potato soup recipe with bacon is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. It's surprisingly easy to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Get ready to experience the creamy, savory goodness of this homemade classic – a true winner in the world of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bacon, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 cups milk or cream (for a richer soup, use cream)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 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, leaving the bacon grease in the pot. Set the cooked bacon aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook in the bacon grease until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth: Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Important Note: If using a regular blender, work in batches and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
Step 5: Stir in Milk and Seasonings: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the milk (or cream), thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with the crispy bacon, fresh chives (if using), and an extra sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. This delicious and satisfying soup is perfect as a quick dinner idea or a hearty lunch.
Tips for the Best Potato Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use chicken broth made from scratch or a high-quality store-bought brand.
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or thyme to suit your preference. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth of flavor.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of heating.
- Spicy Potato Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Creamy Potato and Leek Soup: Substitute half of the potatoes with leeks for a more delicate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on the type of milk/cream used)
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This old-fashioned potato soup recipe offers a simple, yet incredibly satisfying meal. Its creamy texture, savory bacon bits, and herbaceous notes make it a true comfort food classic, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious and easy homemade cooking experience!