Bacon-Potato Chowder
Creamy and hearty, Bacon-Potato Chowder features crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and a rich, savory broth. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly evenings and suits families or anyone craving a flavorful, filling soup with a smoky undertone and velvety texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crispy, then sauté onion in bacon drippings and drain.
- Add hash brown potatoes and water to the pot, cook until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Heat thoroughly but do not boil the chowder.
- Add more milk if the chowder becomes too thick before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk or adding a bit more sour cream. If you're short on time, frozen hash browns work perfectly in this recipe. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the bacon flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Mary Frances Glass' Chicken And Rice Salad for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chowder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the chowder thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Potato Chowder contains roughly 256 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1761mg per serving (77% 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 make this chowder ahead of time?
Yes, this chowder can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to reheat it gently and add a little milk if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze the bacon-potato chowder?
While you can freeze the chowder, the texture may change once thawed, particularly the potatoes. It's best to freeze it without the dairy and add the sour cream and milk when reheating. This way, you maintain a better consistency.
What can I use instead of bacon for a vegetarian option?
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can replicate that smoky flavor. You might also consider including mushrooms for added depth.
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).