Cheddar Bacon Soup
Creamy, cheesy bacon soup with tender vegetables, perfect for chilly days or casual gatherings. Rich flavors of cheddar, American cheese, and crispy bacon create a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp.
- Drain bacon, reserving 1/2 cup of the drippings.
- Crumble bacon and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, cook carrots, celery, and onion in the reserved bacon drippings until vegetables are crisp and tender.
- Stir in flour and ground pepper.
- Add milk and chicken broth, then cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add shredded Cheddar and American cheeses, stirring until melted.
- Stir in crumbled bacon, reserving 1/2 cup for garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon. If you want a thicker soup, gradually add more flour until you reach your desired consistency. For a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with low-fat milk. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used as a convenient alternative. This soup can also be customized with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheddar Bacon Soup hot, garnished with the reserved crumbled bacon. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Tater Tot Pie for a comforting dinner experience. A sprinkle of green onions or fresh parsley can also enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use a saucepan over low heat to gently warm the soup, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk to help restore its creamy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Bacon Soup contains roughly 428 calories, with 14g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (130% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 891mg per serving (39% 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 soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cheddar Bacon Soup ahead of time. Simply prepare the soup and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove, adding a little milk if necessary to return its creamy consistency.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar and American cheese are traditional in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites. Each will impart a unique flavor to the soup.
Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added flavor, try sautéing mushrooms or using smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness of bacon. Additionally, vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free option.
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).