Potato Bacon Soup With Perfectly Balanced Sweet And Savory Ingredients

There’s an undeniable allure in the world of culinary simplicity, where a handful of humble ingredients come together to create something truly remarkable like Potato Bacon Soup Recipe.

Nestled within this realm is the time-honored pairing of leeks and potatoes, brought to life in a soup that encapsulates comfort, elegance, and an array of tantalizing flavors.

The subtle sweetness of carefully sautéed leeks effortlessly marries with the hearty, earthy notes of potato, forming a velvety harmony that dances on your palate.

Each spoonful provides a taste of tradition, a celebration of simplicity, and a testament to the power of well-balanced ingredients.

Designed with a sense of authenticity and bolstered by tried-and-true techniques, this Leek and Potato Soup recipe is more than just a dish – it’s a culinary journey.

So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to unearth the magic within this classic soup that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. Let the cooking adventure begin!

What Is Potato Bacon Soup?

Potato bacon soup is a rich, comforting dish typically made with a base of bacon, potatoes, and onions, often along with other vegetables such as carrots or celery. 

The ingredients are cooked together, usually starting with the bacon to render out its fat, which is then used to sauté the onions and any other vegetables. The potatoes are added next, and then broth is introduced to simmer and soften the potatoes.

The result is a hearty, satisfying soup with a deep, savory flavor from the bacon and a creamy, comforting quality from the potatoes. It’s typically served hot and may be garnished with extra crumbled bacon, chives, or shredded cheese.

History Of Potato Bacon Soup 

Potato Bacon Soup is deeply rooted in traditional cooking from many different cultures. This tasty comfort food has yet to have a definitive point of origin, but its core ingredients – potatoes and bacon – give us some clues about its history.

Potato Bacon Soup has become particularly popular in North American cuisine, often seen in the menu rotation of family dinners, especially during colder months.

Various embellishments like cream, cheese, and herbs have added further layers of deliciousness to this humble yet flavorful dish.

 Interesting Facts About Potato Bacon Soup 

• Culinary Variation: Potato bacon soup has countless variations across different cultures. While the main ingredients are usually potatoes and bacon, it’s often adapted with other vegetables, spices, and proteins according to local tastes and traditions.

• Hearty Survival Meal: Historically, the ingredients in this soup were common staples in the pantries of many households. Both potatoes and bacon could be stored for long periods, making this a reliable dish during harsh winters or scarcity.

• Nutrition Powerhouse: The humble potato is a significant source of vital nutrients like Vitamin C, potassium, and Vitamin B6, while the bacon adds a hearty dose of protein. 

• Soup or Chowder: Depending on the preparation, some versions of potato bacon soup, especially those with cream or milk, are akin to a chowder. It leads to interesting culinary debates about what constitutes a “soup” versus a “chowder.”

• Endless Customization: Potato bacon soup is incredibly versatile. It can be prepared as a chunky, rustic dish or puréed for a smoother consistency. It can be garnished with anything from cheddar cheese.

• Slow-Cooker Friendly: This soup is an excellent choice for slow cooking. The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a depth and richness that is hard to achieve with quick cooking.

What Makes Potato Bacon Soup Special?

Potato Bacon Soup is special for several reasons, making it a perennial favorite among comfort food enthusiasts.

• Simplicity and Versatility: The core ingredients – potatoes, bacon, and broth – are straightforward and common in many pantries. This soup is adaptable, lending itself to countless variations and allowing cooks to customize it to their liking.

• Depth of Flavor: Combining the hearty, earthy potatoes and the savory, smoky bacon creates a deep and satisfying flavor profile. The richness of the bacon complements the mild, starchy potatoes, resulting in a complex yet comforting soup.

• Texture Diversity: The soup offers a delightful array of textures – from the crispy, salty bacon bits to the soft, creamy potatoes; every spoonful promises a delicious sensory experience.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Celery root	1
Red-skinned new potatoes	3-4 large
Bacon slices	3
Medium onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice	1
Chicken stock (homemade or low-sodium)	4 cups
Water	2 cups
Celery leaves, roughly chopped	From three stalks
Fresh black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Kosher salt	To taste
Chives (optional)	1 tablespoon (for garnish)

Ingredient Tips

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work well for a thicker, creamier soup because they’re high in starch. However, if you want a soup that maintains a bit more texture, red-skinned or Yukon Gold potatoes could be a good choice as they hold their shape better.

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon often provides a more robust flavor and a satisfying, chewy texture. Make sure to cook it until it’s crisp for the best results. Reserve some for garnish.

• Onion and Garlic: Saute these until they’re soft and fragrant, but be careful not to let them burn, as this can give a bitter taste to your soup.

• Stock or Broth: Choose a high-quality stock or broth, as it significantly contributes to the flavor of the soup. Homemade is always best, but store-bought will work just fine. If using store-bought, consider a low-sodium version to control the salt level.

• Cream or Milk: Full-fat dairy will give the soup a rich and creamy texture. If you want a lighter soup, use milk or a dairy alternative, or skip this ingredient. When serving, you can also replace it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.

• Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup properly. While it’s simmering, taste it and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Remember, the potatoes will absorb much of the salt, so it might require more than you think.

• Optional Ingredients: To enhance the flavor, add other ingredients like celery, carrots, or herbs (like thyme or rosemary). This is your soup, so make it to your taste! Cheddar cheese, green onions, or chives also make a great garnish before serving.

Can You Vary Potato Bacon Soup With Other Ingredients?

You can vary potato bacon soup by adding other ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Additional Vegetables: You can add more vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients. Consider carrots, celery, peas, bell peppers, or even kale. For a little sweetness, roasted corn could be a great addition.

• Grains: For a heartier soup, consider adding some grains. Barley, farro, or even rice could work well.

• Dairy-Free or Vegan Variations: Use a dairy alternative like almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream for creaminess. For the bacon, consider vegan bacon substitutes or add a bit of liquid smoke for that characteristic smoky flavor.

• Vegan Substitutions: Use a vegan bacon alternative, such as tempeh bacon or coconut bacon, for that smoky flavor. Opt for a vegan butter substitute or olive oil.

• Vegetarian Substitutions: You could use a vegetarian bacon substitute or smoked tofu. Alternatively, omit the bacon entirely and use a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. Use vegetable stock instead.

• Gluten-Free Substitutions: Potato Bacon Soup is generally gluten-free, but always check your specific ingredients. Look for brands labeled gluten-free or make your own stock at home. 

Recipe Directions

• Start by prepping your ingredients: peel the celery root and potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Set aside.

• Over medium heat, cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until it’s crisp and has rendered its fat. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the fat in the pot, and set it aside on a paper towel.

• In the same pot, add the diced onion to the bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.

• Add the cubed celery root and potatoes to the pot, stirring to mix with the onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors.

• Pour the chicken stock and water into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the potatoes and celery root are tender. This will take about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of your cubes.

• Once the vegetables are tender, you can leave the soup chunky or use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.

• Stir in the chopped celery leaves, black pepper, and salt to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors meld together.

• Crumble the cooked bacon. If you’re using the chives, chop them finely.

• Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each serving with the crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of chives.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Soup

Variations, add-ons, and toppings can give your Potato Bacon Soup a delightful twist. Here are some ideas:

Variations

• Veggies: Mix additional vegetables like carrots, peas, bell peppers, kale, or corn for extra flavor and nutrients.

• Proteins: Switch up the bacon for diced ham, shredded chicken, or even clams for a twist on clam chowder. Use beans or lentils and a vegan bacon substitute for a vegetarian version.

• Herbs and Spices: Add a new flavor profile with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves, or even some heat with chili flakes or paprika.

• Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes or purple potatoes instead of red-skinned potatoes for a unique flavor and color twist.

Add-Ons

• Grains: Add barley, farro, or rice to make the soup heartier.

• Dairy-Free or Vegan Variations: Use a dairy substitute like almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew cream for creaminess and vegan bacon substitutes for the smoky flavor.

Toppings

• Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar, cream cheese, or parmesan can add a lovely creaminess and tang.

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or green onions add color, freshness, and flavor.

• Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt can add a cool, creamy contrast to the warm soup.

• Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil can add a spicy kick and enhance the soup’s visual appeal.

Scaling The Recipe

Ensure the balance of flavors by maintaining the ratio of seasonings and spices. Remember the desired serving size and make necessary adjustments while keeping the cooking time and techniques consistent.

Scale Up

• Use 2 celery roots instead of 1.
• Use 6-8 large red-skinned new potatoes instead of 3-4.
• Use 6 slices of bacon instead of 3.
• Use 2 medium onions instead of 1.
• Use 8 cups of chicken stock and 4 cups of water instead of 4 cups and 2 cups respectively.
• Use leaves from six celery stalks instead of three.
• Double the quantities of fresh black pepper and kosher salt.
• Use 2 Tbsp of chives for garnish, if desired.

Scale Down

• Use 1/2 celery root instead of 1.
• Use 1-2 large red-skinned new potatoes instead of 3-4.
• Use 1.5 slices of bacon (or round up to 2 for more flavor).
• Use 1/2 medium onion instead of 1.
• Use 2 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of water instead of 4 cups and 2 cups respectively.
• Use leaves from one and a half celery stalks.
• Halve the quantities of fresh black pepper and kosher salt.
• Use 1/2 Tbsp of chives for garnish, if desired.

What Is Used For Garnishing Potato Bacon Soup?

In the Potato Bacon Soup recipe we discussed, the primary garnishing ingredients are:

• Crispy Bacon Crumbles: These are used to add texture and reinforce the flavor of the soup. 

• Chives (optional): Chopped chives can add a subtle oniony flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• In a pan, cook your bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon, leaving the fat behind. Sauté the onion in the bacon fat until translucent. Transfer the bacon and onion to the slow cooker.

• Add the diced celery root, potatoes, chicken stock, water, chopped celery leaves, black pepper, and salt into the slow cooker. 

• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours; until the vegetables are tender.

• You can choose to puree the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture or leave it chunky.

• Serve the soup with crumbled bacon and optional chives for garnish.

Instant Pot

• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon, leaving the fat behind. Sauté the onion in the bacon fat until translucent.

• Add the diced celery root, potatoes, chicken stock, water, chopped celery leaves, black pepper, and salt into the Instant Pot. 

• Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

• You can choose to puree the soup with an immersion blender for a smoother texture or leave it chunky.

• Serve the soup with crumbled bacon and optional chives for garnish.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth Or Should I Make My Own?

You absolutely can use store-bought broth in your Potato Bacon Soup.

Using store-bought broth or stock is a convenient and time-saving option. Many high-quality store-bought broths are available and can still provide a flavorful base for your soup. If you opt for this choice, look for low-sodium options.

However, homemade broth can offer richer flavors, especially if it’s made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and perhaps bones. It also gives you control over what goes into your broth, so you can avoid preservatives or ingredients you might be allergic to.

So, the choice between store-bought and homemade broth largely depends on how much time and effort you’re willing to put into your soup. Both can be great choices, depending on the circumstances.

Can I Use Different Types Of Seafood/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables Etc For The Soup?

• Meats: Instead of bacon, you could use diced ham, ground sausage, shredded chicken, or even small meatballs. You could use smoked sausage if you want a smoky flavor similar to bacon.

• Fish: While less common in a hearty soup like this, you could certainly add seafood like clams, mussels, or even firm fish like cod or haddock. This might transform the soup into more of a seafood chowder.

• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, macaroni, or orzo could be added to make the soup even heartier. Be aware that pasta will absorb some of the broth, so you may need to add more liquid.

• Vegetables: There are many vegetables you could add to this soup. Consider carrots, peas, bell peppers, kale, spinach, or corn for extra flavor and nutrients.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

• Choose Quality Ingredients: As with any recipe, the quality of your ingredients matters. Fresh vegetables, quality bacon, and a rich, flavorful chicken stock will make a noticeable difference in your soup.

• Control Your Salt: If you use store-bought chicken stock, opt for the low-sodium version. This gives you more control over the final salt level in your soup.

• Cook Your Bacon Well: Make sure your bacon is crispy before you remove it from the pot. Not only does this make for a better garnish, but it also leaves behind tasty drippings that add flavor to your soup.

• Sweat Your Onions: Sautéing your onions until they’re translucent (called sweating) helps bring out their sweetness and adds depth of flavor to your soup.

• Don’t Overcook Your Potatoes: Cook your potatoes until they are just tender. Overcooking them can result in a mushy texture.

• Blend to Your Liking: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you may want to blend only a portion of it or not at all. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend all of it. It’s up to you.

• Adjust Your Liquids: Depending on how thick you like your soup, you may want to add more or less liquid. Remember, you can always add more broth or water, but it takes more work to take it away.

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: This French term translates to “everything in its place.” It means before you start cooking, prep and measure out all your ingredients. This streamlines the cooking process and ensures you remember everything.

• Dicing: Keep the pieces roughly the same size when dicing the potatoes and celery root. This promotes even cooking.

• Bacon Prep: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This not only improves the texture but also results in more flavorful drippings, enhancing the taste of your soup.

Cooking Time Tips

• Don’t Rush the Sauté: The sautéing step at the beginning (bacon, then onion) is essential for developing flavor. Don’t rush this part. Allow the onions to become translucent and the bacon to crisp up.

• Simmering: Once all your ingredients are in the pot, let your soup simmer until the potatoes are tender. Remember, gentle simmering helps meld the flavors together.

• Adjusting the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat during cooking. If the soup is boiling too vigorously, it can break down the potatoes and make them mushy. A gentle simmer is what you’re aiming for.

Nutritional Values

The nutritional value of a Potato Bacon Soup recipe can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. It may also be higher in calories, fat, and sodium.

What Are The Total Calories In Potato Bacon Soup?

The exact calorie content of a Potato Bacon Soup can vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients used, their quantities, and the serving size. On average, a single serving of creamy potato bacon soup might contain around 200-300 calories. However, this is a general estimate.

What Are Dietary Restrictions For Potato Bacon Soup?

Potato Bacon Soup can be a wonderful comfort food, but like any dish, certain dietary restrictions may impact whether it’s suitable for everyone. Here are some potential dietary considerations:

• Dairy-Free/Lactose Intolerance: Traditional Potato Bacon Soup doesn’t usually contain dairy, but some versions might include cream or milk to increase richness. For a dairy-free version, ensure no dairy-containing ingredients are added.
• Nut Allergies: This soup is generally safe for those with nut allergies, but as always, check the labels of any store-bought ingredients to ensure they haven’t been processed in a facility with nuts.
• Halal/Kosher: Bacon is not Halal or Kosher. If cooking for someone following a Halal or Kosher diet, the bacon would need to be omitted or replaced with a Halal/Kosher-compliant substitute.

What Are Health Benefits Of Potato Bacon Soup?

Potato Bacon Soup, while being a comfort food, does offer some health benefits:

• Potatoes: They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C and potassium. Potatoes also contain a fair amount of fiber, especially if the skins are left on.

• Bacon: While it’s not usually considered a “health food,” bacon provides a significant amount of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and supporting overall body functions. It also contains some amount of B vitamins.

• Onions and Garlic: These are rich in antioxidants and can boost immune function. They’re also known for their potential heart health benefits.

• Chicken Stock: Homemade chicken stock can be high in protein and collagen, which can support joint health. 

• Celery: Celery is low in calories, but high in antioxidants and a good source of dietary fiber.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Potato Bacon Soup Lower In Sodium? 

Here are a few tips to lower the sodium content in your Potato Bacon Soup:

• Low-Sodium Stock: Use low-sodium or no-sodium chicken stock. You can also make your own homemade stock, with full control over the salt content.

• Bacon: Opt for low-sodium bacon if available. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of bacon used in the recipe and boost flavor with herbs and spices.

• Seasoning: Be mindful of added salt. Remember that the bacon and stock will already contribute some salt, so taste before adding more.

• Vegetables: Increase the quantity of vegetables in your soup. Vegetables have low sodium content and will help increase your soup’s volume without adding more salt.

• No Added Salt: Avoid ingredients with added salt, like canned vegetables or certain seasonings and spice blends.

How Can I Make Potato Bacon Soup Lower In Sugar?

Potato Bacon Soup is generally low in sugar as it does not typically contain added sugars. However, here are a few strategies to ensure it stays that way, especially important for a diabetic diet:

• Check Labels: If you use store-bought ingredients like chicken stock, check the labels for added sugars. Some brands may add sugar or sweeteners.

• Control Carbs: Potatoes are high in carbohydrates, which can affect blood sugar levels. Limit the number of potatoes used, or replace some with other lower-carb vegetables like cauliflower.

• Natural Sweetness: Rely on the natural sweetness of ingredients like onions and carrots; rather than adding sugar to balance the taste.

• Portion Control: Keep portions reasonable. While the soup itself might be lower in sugar, large portions could still lead to consuming more carbs.

How To Serve The Potato Bacon Soup At Its Best?

Serving Potato Bacon Soup at its best involves a few key steps:

• Reheat Properly: If the soup has been made beforehand, gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through. Don’t let it boil, as it could change the soup’s texture, especially if it contains cream.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup after reheating and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes flavors can change slightly during storage and reheating.

• Serve Warm, Not Hot: Soup should be served warm, but not scalding hot. Letting the soup cool a few minutes before serving is better so the flavors can be fully appreciated.

• Serve with Toppings: A good Potato Bacon Soup can be made even better with the right toppings.
  Consider adding a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh herbs like chives or parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkling of shredded cheese. The added textures and flavors will enhance the soup.

• Pair with Complementary Sides: A warm, crusty bread roll or a fresh salad can contrast the creamy, hearty soup.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Recipe

Potato Bacon Soup is a hearty dish that can stand on its own, but a variety of side dishes can beautifully complement it. Here are some ideas:

Sandwiches

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The cheese’s richness and the toasted bread’s crunch make this a classic pairing with any soup.

• Turkey and Avocado Sandwich: The light, healthy flavors of turkey and avocado would balance well with the hearty soup.

Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a variety of greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup.

• Apple and Walnut Salad: The sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the walnuts can add an interesting dimension to your meal.

First Course

• Bruschetta: This classic Italian starter, with its fresh tomatoes and basil, would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

• Charcuterie Board: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and crackers would be a great way to start the meal before moving on to the soup.

How Long Can We Store The Potato Bacon Soup?

Potato Bacon Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can freeze the soup if you need to store it for longer.

Frozen Potato Bacon Soup can last for up to 2-3 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stovetop or microwave.

Can I Make Potato Bacon Soup In Advance?

• Prepare the Soup: Follow the recipe to prepare the soup but hold off on adding any cream (if the recipe calls for it) or garnishes.
• Cool and Store: Once cooked, allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s hot. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you can add a bit more broth or water to thin it to your preferred consistency.
• Add Final Touches: Stir in the cream (if using) once the soup is hot, and then add your garnishes. 

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover Potato Bacon Soup can be wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ways to repurpose it:

• Pasta Sauce: Use the leftover soup as a creamy sauce for pasta. You may need to thin it down with a bit of pasta cooking water.

• Casserole Base: Use the soup as a base for a casserole. Add cooked meat, vegetables, or grains, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.

• Baked Potato Topping: Heat the soup and use it as a rich, delicious topping for baked potatoes.

• Pot Pie Filling: Thicken the soup with a bit of flour or cornstarch, add in extra veggies or cooked chicken if you’d like, and use it as a filling for a comforting pot pie.

• Reheat and Eat: The simplest option is to reheat and enjoy the soup as is – sometimes, the flavors are even better the next day!

Special Tools Required While Cooking Potato Bacon Soup

Making Potato Bacon Soup doesn’t require any special tools, but a few basic kitchen items can make the process easier and more efficient:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to cook the soup. A Dutch oven is great because it distributes heat evenly, but any large pot will work.

• Sharp Knife: A sharp chef’s knife will make prepping your ingredients much easier and safer.

• Cutting Board: Use a sturdy cutting board for chopping your vegetables.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring your ingredients.

• Immersion Blender, Food Processor, or Blender: An immersion blender is ideal for pureeing the soup right in the pot, but you can also use a regular blender or food processor. Just be careful when blending hot soup and blend in batches if necessary.

• Ladle: For serving your soup.

• Storage Containers: If you plan to store leftovers, you’ll need airtight storage containers. These can be plastic or glass.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Other Types Of Potatoes In This Soup?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes. When cooked, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are excellent choices for their creamy texture.

What If I Don’t Have Fresh Celery On Hand?

If you don’t have fresh celery, you can substitute a teaspoon of celery salt or celery seed. However, remember this may alter the saltiness of the soup, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

Can I Substitute The Bacon?

Yes, you can use other types of smoked meat, like ham or smoked turkey. You can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version and add a smoky element with smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

What Can I Use Instead Of Chicken Stock?

You can use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken stock if you want a vegetarian soup. Alternatively, you can use water with a bouillon cube for a quick fix.

Can I Make This Soup Vegan?

To make this soup vegan, omit the bacon, use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and use a plant-based cream substitute.