Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon — The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Food

🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon:
   In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy (about 5–6 minutes). Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave a bit of the drippings in the pot for flavor.

2. Sauté the Veggies:
   Add diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.

3. Build the Roux:
   Melt butter into the vegetables. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1 minute to eliminate the raw taste.

4. Add Broth:
   Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer with Potatoes:
   Add potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender.

6. Add Milk & Finish:
   Stir in the milk and heat gently for 1–2 minutes. Do not boil (to avoid curdling).

7. Serve & Garnish:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, bacon bits, and chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

• Reheat: Warm slowly over low heat — add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

📝 Tips for Perfect Potato Soup

• Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for the creamiest results.

• Don’t boil after adding milk — gentle heat keeps the soup smooth.

• For extra creaminess, blend half the soup and stir it back in.

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cheddar powder for an extra flavor kick.

🍽️ What to Serve With It

Pair this soup with:

• A warm slice of buttery cornbread or garlic toast

• A crisp green salad

• Or a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for the ultimate comfort combo

⭐ Recipe Summary

Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Flavor Profile: Creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced with smoky bacon and tender potatoes.

🥄 Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cozy, this Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon will warm your soul. It’s simple, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of soup that turns any cold evening into a comfort-filled experience.

Pro tip: Make a double batch — you’ll wish you had more!