When it comes to heartwarming comfort food, Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon is a true classic. The rich, velvety texture of the soup combined with the sharp cheddar and the savory crunch of bacon makes it an irresistible choice for chilly evenings. In this blog post, we’ll not only provide you with the recipe and detailed instructions but also share some valuable cooking tips to ensure your soup turns out incredible.
Why Creamy Potato Soup?
Potato soup is the kind of dish that warms your soul. It’s a cozy, satisfying bowl of goodness that can turn any day into a better one. Our version of Creamy Potato Soup takes things up a notch with the addition of sharp Cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. It’s a true comfort food masterpiece.
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
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Crispy Bacon
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F. Lay your bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until they’re deliciously crispy. Once they’re ready, transfer them to some paper towels to absorb excess grease, and then crumble them into delectable bacon bits.
Step 2: Sauté Veggies
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic ingredients until they become tender, which should take about 10 minutes.
Behind the Scenes: The kitchen starts to fill with the inviting aroma of sautéed veggies, and you can already tell something scrumptious is in the making.
Step 3: Flour and Broth
Next up, stir in the flour and cook for 2 more minutes. This helps to thicken up your soup. Now, introduce the cubed potatoes, chicken broth, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring it all to a gentle boil.
Behind the Scenes: This is where the magic begins. The potatoes are about to soak up all the flavorful goodness from the broth, creating a creamy base.
Step 4: Simmer Soup
Lower the heat and let the soup simmer. You’ll want to cook it until the potatoes are tender but still slightly firm, which should take around 15 minutes. Remember to remove the bay leaf from the pot and, while stirring, slowly add in the whole milk.
Behind the Scenes: As the soup simmers, you can sense the flavors melding together. It’s a crucial step in achieving that signature creamy consistency.
Step 5: Final Touch
Let the soup simmer a bit more, about 15 minutes, until it thickens slightly. The moment has arrived to serve your Creamy Potato Soup. Ladle it into bowls and top each serving with a generous helping of grated Cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves, and, of course, the beloved crumbled bacon.
Behind the Scenes: As you add the finishing touches, your kitchen is filled with the anticipation of enjoying this comforting delight.
Conclusion: Creamy Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a bowl of warmth and indulgence that brings a smile to your face. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a solo comfort meal, this recipe will always hit the spot. Enjoy every spoonful of this creamy, cheesy, and bacon-infused masterpiece!
Why Creamy Potato Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion
Creamy Potato Soup isn’t just for chilly days—it’s an anytime, anywhere, any-occasion kind of dish. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a comforting bowl to lift your spirits, this soup is your go-to choice.
The Power of Cheddar and Bacon
What sets our Creamy Potato Soup apart is the irresistible combination of sharp Cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. The cheese adds depth and creaminess, while the bacon provides a delightful crunch and that beloved smoky flavor.
A Dish to Satisfy Your Cravings
Sometimes, we all need a little indulgence. Creamy Potato Soup is here to satisfy your cravings for something creamy, hearty, and utterly delicious.
