Hearty Potato and Bacon Soup

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Introduction
Few dishes are as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This potato and bacon soup is the epitome of cozy comfort food, combining tender potatoes, savory bacon, and rich cheddar cheese in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal, this slow cooker recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into the origins, ingredients, and tips for crafting this soul-soothing dish.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Potato soup has long been a staple in European and American cuisine, prized for its affordability and versatility. Adding bacon and cheese elevates this simple dish into something truly indulgent. Traditionally, hearty soups like this one were made to nourish hard-working families, and they’ve become synonymous with comfort and hospitality. Today, variations of potato soup are found worldwide, celebrated for their ability to bring people together around the table.

Ingredients Quantity

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this delicious soup:

Base Ingredients:

  • 3.5 cups chicken broth – Forms the flavorful base.
  • 4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced (3–4 cups) – Adds heartiness and texture.
  • 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes – Provides a tangy, acidic balance.
  • 1 yellow onion, diced – Enhances depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded carrots – Adds natural sweetness.
  • 1 cup diced celery – Contributes aromatic notes.

Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley – Offers a subtle herbal touch.
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder – Adds savory warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil – Infuses mild, earthy undertones.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice.

Protein:

  • 1 pound ground beef – Makes the soup extra hearty.
  • 1 package (12 ounces) bacon, cooked and chopped – Provides smoky, savory richness.

Creamy Thickener:

  • 3 tablespoons butter – Forms the roux base.
  • 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free 1:1) – Thickens the soup to a creamy consistency.
  • 2 cups half and half – Adds velvety smoothness.

Cheesy Goodness:

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese – Melts into the soup, creating creamy, cheesy perfection.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Reserved chopped bacon

Optional Additions

  1. Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
  2. Herbs – Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic twist.
  3. Vegetables – Include corn kernels or peas for extra texture and sweetness.
  4. Smoked Paprika – Sprinkle in for a deeper smoky flavor.
  5. Croutons – Top with homemade croutons for added crunch.

Tips for Success

  1. Uniform Potato Pieces – Dice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
  2. Pre-Cook the Bacon – Baking or frying the bacon ahead allows you to control the crispness and drain excess grease.
  3. Roux Mastery – Whisk the flour and butter thoroughly to avoid lumps in the cream base.
  4. Cheese Selection – Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother melt, as pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents.
  5. Taste Before Serving – Adjust salt and pepper levels to your preference just before serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Start the Soup Base

  1. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, parsley, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
  2. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Proteins

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, brown the ground beef in a skillet. Drain any excess grease and transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
  2. Fry or bake the bacon until crispy. Chop it into small pieces and add most of it to the slow cooker, reserving some for garnish.

Step 3: Make the Cream Base

  1. Wipe out the skillet used for the bacon or beef. Melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour until combined, cooking for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in the half and half, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

  1. Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  2. Add the shredded cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
  3. Cover and cook for another 10-15 minutes on low to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with green onions and reserved bacon bits.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Description

This potato and bacon soup is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish that satisfies both the soul and the stomach. The tender potatoes and flavorful ground beef create a robust base, while the smoky bacon and sharp cheddar cheese elevate every bite. The velvety texture and well-balanced flavors make it perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive starter for guests.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, ~8 servings)

  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g

Conclusion and Recommendation

This potato and bacon soup is everything you want in a bowl—comfort, warmth, and satisfying flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that delivers every time. Pair it with a simple salad or a slice of garlic bread for a complete and memorable meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, consider substituting turkey bacon, reducing the cheese, or using low-fat milk instead of half and half. You can also swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or omit it entirely for a vegetarian twist. Regardless of how you customize it, this soup is a delicious way to embrace comforting indulgence.

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