Looking for a healthy and comforting sweet potato soup recipe? This easy-to-make sweet potato soup combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory flavors from crispy bacon, aromatic garlic, and fresh thyme. Creamy coconut milk adds a rich texture, while the perfect balance of chicken broth, salt, and pepper brings everything together. Whether you’re looking for a cozy fall dish or a nutritious option for any season, this creamy sweet potato soup is a family favorite that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s easily customizable for a vegetarian sweet potato soup by omitting the bacon. Perfect for meal prep, freezing, or a weeknight dinner, this sweet potato soup with bacon will become your go-to recipe!

Ingredients:

8 oz bacon (about 6 strips), chopped into ½-inch pieces (see notes for vegetarian option)
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large celery rib, diced
2 lbs sweet potatoes (3 medium), peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
3 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
14 oz canned coconut milk (shake well before opening), divided
1 ½ tsp fine sea salt (or more to taste)
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 3 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot (discard any excess or leave it for added flavor).
Add the diced onion and celery to the pot, cooking for 4 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the chopped sweet potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, partially cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender. Remove and discard the thyme sprigs.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend the soup in batches using a high-powered blender. Return the soup to the pot and stir in 12 oz of the coconut milk, reserving some for garnish. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Bring the soup to a boil, then remove from heat.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of coconut milk, crispy bacon, and fresh parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect comforting dish for chilly days. It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of bacon and thyme, while the addition of coconut milk creates a creamy texture. The crispy bacon topping adds a delicious crunch, and the soup is easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal or looking to impress guests, this soup delivers rich flavors and a velvety smooth texture that everyone will enjoy.

Tips

Smooth Soup: For the smoothest texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or blend in batches with a high-speed blender.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter soup, add a touch more honey or maple syrup. You can also use roasted sweet potatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
Crispy Bacon: To ensure the bacon remains crispy when serving, cook it just before you’re ready to serve the soup. You can also use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a little heat.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian soup. You can add sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a hearty topping.
Dairy-Free: This soup is already dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk. If you don’t like coconut flavor, use almond milk or another dairy-free alternative.
Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh thyme, use oregano or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile. Bay leaves can also add depth to the soup.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors may even improve after sitting for a day. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding more broth or coconut milk as needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop.

What can I substitute for bacon? For a vegetarian or vegan option, omit the bacon and try sautéing mushrooms or using crispy chickpeas as a garnish for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.