Name: Creamy Potato Bacon Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces.; 3 tablespoons butter.; 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (1.5 cups).; 3 large garlic cloves, minced.; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour.; 2.5 pounds gold potatoes, peeled and diced.; 4 cups chicken broth.; 2 cups milk.; 2/3 cup heavy cream.; 1.5 teaspoons salt.; 1 teaspoon ground pepper.; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder.; 2/3 cup sour cream.; Cheddar cheese for topping.; Chives for garnish.

A bowl of creamy potato soup topped with bacon, green onions, cheddar cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, accompanied by another bowl of shredded cheese. | tasteofcook.com

This Ultimate Creamy Potato Soup recipe came to life in my kitchen years ago during a snow storm. When I needed something warm and comforting, I grabbed some potatoes, bacon from the freezer and started cooking. The aroma of crispy bacon and creamy potatoes filled my kitchen, and my family still begs for it every time the weather turns chilly.

More Than Just Soup

The secret to this soup's incredible flavor lies in those little brown bits the bacon leaves behind. I discovered adding just a touch of ancho chili powder gives it this subtle warmth that makes people wonder what makes it taste so special. It's become my signature dish for cold winter nights.

What You'll Need

Russet Potatoes: I love how they break down and make the soup extra creamy
Good Bacon: The thick cut kind works beautifully here
Full Fat Sour Cream: Trust me it makes all the difference
Sharp Cheddar: I always grate it fresh
Ancho Chili: My secret ingredient for that extra something
Rich Chicken Broth: Homemade when I have it
European Butter: A little splurge that's worth it

Let's Make Soup

Start with the Potatoes: Cut them into bite sized pieces they'll cook more evenly that way
Get That Bacon Crispy: Cook it slowly and save every bit of those wonderful drippings
Build the Flavor Base: Let those onions and garlic get soft and fragrant in the bacon goodness
Simmer to Perfection: Give those potatoes time to get tender in the broth
Make it Silky: Blend just enough to make it creamy but leave some chunks for texture then stir in all the good stuff

Little Things That Matter

I always make sure my potato chunks are the same size they cook more evenly that way. Blending just half the soup gives you the perfect balance of creamy and chunky. A little sprinkle of that ancho chili on top makes it look as special as it tastes.

What to Serve With It

We love dunking crusty sourdough bread into this soup. Sometimes I'll toss together a quick green salad for balance. On really cold nights I might even make some garlic bread for extra comfort.

Saving Some for Later

This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for about 4 days. Just warm it up slowly on the stove giving it a gentle stir now and then. I don't usually freeze it the texture isn't quite the same when thawed.

Mix It Up

Sometimes I'll add a handful of fresh chives or green onions on top. Greek yogurt makes a tangy substitute for sour cream and leftover ham works beautifully in place of bacon. The possibilities are endless.

Pure Comfort in a Bowl

There's something magical about how this soup brings people together. Maybe it's the creamy texture or the way the bacon adds such wonderful flavor. Whatever it is it never fails to make everyone feel cozy and content.

A bowl of creamy potato soup topped with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chopped green onions, with another bowl of cheese in the background. | tasteofcook.com

Learning from Experience

Take your time cutting those potatoes evenly. Taste before adding salt the bacon and cheese bring plenty of their own. And don't skip blending some of the soup it's what gives it that perfect creamy texture.

Planning Ahead

When I know I'll be making this soup I often cook the bacon and prep the potatoes earlier in the day. The whole thing comes together so much quicker that way. Plus who doesn't love having ready-to-go bacon.

Winter's Best Friend

This soup has warmed us up after sledding adventures snow shoveling and countless chilly evenings. It's like a warm hug in a bowl exactly what you need when the weather turns cold.

Making It Your Own

Some nights I'll roast a whole head of garlic to stir in. Other times I might add spicy sausage instead of bacon. The base recipe is so forgiving you can really play with the flavors.

A Bowl of Love

This soup has seen us through sick days snow days and celebrations. It's the kind of recipe that becomes part of your family story. The smell of it cooking brings everyone to the kitchen hoping for a taste.

A bowl of creamy soup topped with shredded cheese, crispy bacon, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. | tasteofcook.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this soup without a blender?: Yes, you can skip the blending step for a chunkier soup. Or mash some potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon for a partially creamy texture.
→ What type of potatoes work best?: Gold potatoes are ideal for their buttery texture and ability to hold shape. Russet potatoes can work too but may break down more during cooking.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?: Yes, this soup reheats well. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk if needed to thin the consistency.
→ How can I make this soup thicker?: Blend more of the soup for a thicker consistency. You can also make a cornstarch slurry with cold water and stir it in while simmering.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?: Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the soup won't be as rich. For best results, don't skip the sour cream as it adds both creaminess and tang.

Creamy Potato Bacon Soup