Introduction
Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that blends creamy textures with savory flavors. The combination of potatoes, cream cheese, and crispy bacon makes this soup a perfect choice for a chilly day or when you crave something hearty. Easy to prepare, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
Prep time for this soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes peeling and chopping the potatoes and onions, as well as preparing the bacon.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup is about 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from preparation to serving is approximately 45 minutes. This recipe yields enough soup to serve 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for a family meal or leftovers for later.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel to absorb excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, using the bacon grease, add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth
Add diced potatoes to the pot along with chicken broth. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup or mash some of the potatoes.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cream Cheese
Add cream cheese to the blended soup and stir until fully melted and combined.
Step 6: Season the Soup
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings to taste.
Step 7: Add Cooked Bacon
Crumble or chop the cooked bacon and add it back into the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 8: Serve the Soup
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional bacon and your choice of toppings such as chives or shredded cheese.
Notes
Note 1: Type of Potatoes
For best results, use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for a creamy texture.
Note 2: Cream Cheese Substitutes
You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free version if desired to make the soup vegan-friendly.
Note 3: Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Note 4: Freezing the Soup
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best to freeze it without the bacon and cream cheese added.
Cook techniques
Cooking the potatoes
Cook the potatoes until they are tender, which allows them to easily blend into the soup and create a creamy texture.
Sautéing the bacon
Sauté the bacon until crispy for added flavor and texture. The rendered fat also enhances the overall richness of the soup.
Using cream cheese
Incorporate cream cheese to provide a rich, creamy consistency to the soup while enriching the flavor.
Simmering the soup
Allow the soup to simmer to combine flavors and ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and creamy.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use different varieties of potatoes; however, russet or Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for their creaminess.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the bacon with a vegetarian alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I store leftover soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. It’s best to freeze it without the cream cheese, then add it when reheating for optimal texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup is a warm and comforting dish that combines rich flavors and creamy texture. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and tender potatoes makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. It’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
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