This creamy potato soup is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a rich, velvety base. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is both hearty and satisfying, with just the right amount of indulgence. The addition of sour cream and cheddar cheese makes this soup extra creamy and flavorful, while the crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as a cozy weekend treat, this potato soup with bacon will become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
½ tsp salt
8 oz bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 tbsp unsalted butter
½ medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
2 ½ cups whole milk
2 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
1 cup mild or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup sour cream
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp pepper (or to taste)
Green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the Potatoes: In a large stockpot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Season with ½ tsp salt and bring to a boil. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until potatoes are easily pierced with a knife. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Bacon: While the potatoes are cooking, heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a plate and reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add 4 tbsp butter to the pot and sauté the chopped onions until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Make the Soup Base: Whisk in the flour, then gradually add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a soft boil.
Add the Potatoes: Stir in the cooked potatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finish the Soup: Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar, and half of the cooked bacon. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth. Bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the remaining bacon, and sprinkle with green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy potato soup is everything you want in a comfort food – rich, hearty, and full of flavor. The combination of soft, tender potatoes, crispy bacon, creamy cheddar, and tangy sour cream creates a satisfying bowl of soup perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re looking for a warming dish on a chilly day or an easy weeknight meal, this potato soup will hit the spot.

Tips

For extra creaminess, you can add a little extra sour cream or use heavy cream in place of some of the milk.
For a vegetarian version, simply swap the bacon with smoked paprika or vegetarian bacon and use vegetable broth.
If you like a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother consistency, then stir it back into the pot.
Add extra toppings like crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or sour cream for more flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free 1:1 flour to make this soup gluten-free.
Vegan Version: Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy milk, and opt for vegan bacon and cheese.
Loaded Potato Soup: Top with extra cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions for a loaded potato soup experience.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this potato soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Can I freeze potato soup? Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. Thaw and reheat on the stove before serving.

Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with colby jack, monterey jack, or cream cheese for a different flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

This potato soup is perfect for serving with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Pair it with garlic bread or cheddar biscuits for an extra comforting meal. Add some sautéed vegetables or grilled chicken on top for a more filling dish. Enjoy a bowl of this creamy, savory soup for lunch or dinner!