Bacon-Cheese Soup
A rich, cheesy bacon soup with creamy texture and savory flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings or hearty meals that satisfy all cheese and bacon lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cheese sauce, cream of celery soup, milk, and water in a large pot.
- Add instant mashed potatoes, margarine, grated carrots, diced onion, crumbled bacon, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Simmer all ingredients together over low heat for several hours, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese. If you prefer a more robust flavor, try using smoked bacon instead of regular. You can also substitute half of the cheese sauce with a sharper cheddar cheese sauce to enhance the cheesy taste. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially during the last hour of simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Bacon-Cheese Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheddar Cheese Rolls for a comforting combination. For a more filling option, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to complement the rich flavors of the soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to maintain the desired consistency, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Cheese Soup contains roughly 1277 calories, with 50g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (330% of the Daily Value), protein (100% of the Daily Value), and calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2513mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, you can certainly use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to sauté the onions and carrots until they're tender before adding them to the soup. This will enhance their flavors and ensure they're cooked through by the time the soup is finished simmering.
How can I make this soup less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, consider using low-sodium cheese sauce and cream of celery soup. You can also adjust the amount of garlic salt added, or even omit it completely. Taste as you go, and add salt gradually to achieve your preferred level of seasoning.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding some liquid if it appears too thick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).