When it comes to dinner, busy moms need meals that are easy, satisfying, and loved by everyone at the table—without spending hours in the kitchen. Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon checks all those boxes, making it the perfect dish for moms juggling packed schedules. With its simple ingredients, minimal prep, and one-pot method, you’ll have a homemade dinner on the table in no time.
What makes this recipe ideal for busy moms is the ease of preparation. Everything cooks together in one pot, meaning less mess to clean up afterward. You can even prep parts of the recipe in advance—like chopping the veggies or cooking the bacon—making it a go-to solution for those hectic evenings when you need a nourishing, homemade meal fast.
Plus, it’s customizable! If you’re short on time or missing an ingredient, you can easily make swaps (like using pre-shredded cheese or ready-cooked bacon). The result is always a comforting, hearty soup that feeds the whole family and gives you peace of mind knowing you’re serving up something wholesome and delicious.
Another mom-win? This soup keeps well in the fridge, meaning you can make it ahead of time or enjoy leftovers for an easy lunch or dinner the next day. It’s a practical, crowd-pleasing dish that keeps everyone in the family happy, leaving more time for what matters—spending quality moments with your loved ones.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium white onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 celery stalks, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 medium-large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces (about 3 pounds)
- 48 ounces chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup grated yellow and/or white sharp Cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 pound thick-cut bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Crispy Bacon
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay your thick-cut bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until they’re crispy. Transfer them to paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble them into bite-sized pieces. The crispy bacon is what will take this soup from good to unforgettable.
2. Sauté the Veggies
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these ingredients for about 10 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
Mom Tip: Have the kids help chop veggies with kid-safe knives—they’ll love being part of the action!
3. Flour and Broth
Next, stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing it to thicken the base. Then, add your cubed potatoes, chicken broth, kosher salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remember to remove the bay leaf at this stage. Slowly stir in the whole milk while keeping an eye on the consistency.
5. Final Touches
Allow the soup to simmer for another 15 minutes until it thickens up slightly. Once ready, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each one with a generous sprinkle of sharp Cheddar cheese, fresh thyme, and your crumbled bacon.
Behind the Scenes: Why This Recipe Works for Busy Moms
Not only does this Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon satisfy even the hungriest of eaters, but it’s also a stress-free meal to prepare. You can make it in batches and store leftovers for the next day—a perfect solution for those hectic school nights. And let’s be real: having a one-pot meal that pleases the whole family is a win every time.
Plus, this recipe gives you the chance to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Whether they’re crumbling the bacon, stirring the pot, or sprinkling on cheese, it’s a fun way to spend time together while getting dinner on the table.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Fall
As the cooler months roll in, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, creamy bowl of soup. This Creamy Potato Soup is perfect for those days when you want something indulgent without too much fuss. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main meal, paired with some crusty bread or even a side salad.
Bonus: Make it Your Own!
Want to add a little twist? You can easily customize this soup to fit your family’s preferences. Try adding corn or extra vegetables to pack in more nutrients, or top it with sour cream or green onions for a loaded potato soup vibe.
Conclusion: A Family Favorite
With its creamy texture, the sharpness of cheddar, and the irresistible crunch of bacon, this Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon is bound to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect meal to serve on a chilly night or when you want something comforting and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
So grab your pot, gather your little helpers, and get ready to serve up a bowl of cozy goodness. Enjoy!
