SautƩ the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the potatoes to lightly brown and absorb the flavors.
Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup to your desired consistency. For a smoother texture, blend the entire soup. For a chunkier version, blend only half of the soup, leaving some potato pieces intact for added texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer part or all of the soup to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
Add the Cream and Seasonings:
Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
Finish with Bacon:
Stir in the crispy bacon bits you set aside earlier, reserving a small amount for garnish.
Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of dried parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy potato soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or a side salad. You can also serve it as a comforting appetizer or a main dish with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combo.
Storing Leftovers:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of extra broth or water to restore the desired consistency, as the soup thickens over time.
Freezing:
Creamy potato soup freezes well, but the texture may change slightly after thawing due to the cream. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently heat on the stovetop, adding a bit more cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
Variants of Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon:
Vegetarian Potato Soup:
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautƩing. You can replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and add additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, or leeks for more flavor.
Loaded Potato Soup:
Make it even heartier by adding toppings like crispy fried onions, chives, sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or even extra bacon bits. You can also add some diced ham for a meatier version.
Spicy Potato Soup:
If you enjoy some heat, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeƱo while sautƩing the onions and garlic. A dash of hot sauce can also add some extra flavor.
Dairy-Free Potato Soup:
To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for topping if desired.
Cheesy Potato Soup:
For a more indulgent version, add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese directly into the soup and stir until it melts, making the soup even creamier and more flavorful.
FAQ:
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it can actually taste even better the next day. Just be sure to add extra liquid when reheating, as the soup thickens over time.
2. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for a creamy texture, but you can use Russet potatoes or red potatoes if you prefer. Russets will make the soup even creamier when blended, while red potatoes will hold their shape better.
3. Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even a low-sodium broth if you prefer a lighter version of this soup. You could also use bone broth for added richness.
4. Can I skip blending the soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer a chunkier soup, feel free to skip the blending step entirely and enjoy the full texture of the potatoes. You can mash the potatoes slightly with a spoon or potato masher if youād like a more rustic texture.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
For a spicy twist, you can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeƱos. You can also use spicy bacon or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty meal or a side dish, its creamy texture and savory bacon make it irresistible. With easy variations and the ability to store and freeze, itās a soup you can enjoy time and time again. Make a batch today and savor the warmth and goodness in every bite!
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