Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon (Easy Comfort Food Recipe)
When cold weather arrives, nothing satisfies quite like a warm bowl of Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon. Rich, hearty, and packed with comforting flavors, this classic soup combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and a silky smooth broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. Best of all, it’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
This homemade potato soup recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, family meals, or whenever you crave classic comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Potato Soup
Thick, creamy texture without being heavy
Loaded with smoky bacon flavor
Made with wholesome, everyday ingredients
Easy one-pot recipe
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon
Here’s everything you need to make the best potato soup from scratch:
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
1½ cups whole milk
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
Shredded cheddar cheese
Extra bacon bits
Chopped chives or green onions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic to the bacon drippings.
Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Add the butter to the pot and allow it to melt completely.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute. This step removes the raw flour taste and helps thicken the soup.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, a little at a time, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 6: Add the Milk
Turn off the heat and gently stir in the milk.
Do not boil after adding milk, as it may curdle.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped chives. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Creamiest Potato Soup
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for the best creamy texture
For thicker soup, mash some potatoes directly in the pot
Add milk at the end and avoid boiling
Whisk constantly when adding flour and broth
Recipe Variations
Extra Creamy: Replace half the milk with heavy cream
Cheesy Potato Soup: Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese before serving
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne
Vegetarian Option: Skip bacon and use vegetable broth
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk if needed.
Freezing:
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy, which may separate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I blend this soup?
Yes! Use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup for a smoother texture.
Can I use russet potatoes?
Yes, but Yukon Gold potatoes give a naturally creamier result.
How do I thicken potato soup?
Mash potatoes, simmer longer, or add a small cornstarch slurry.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food—rich, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it on a cold evening or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to become a family favorite.