Potato, Bacon, Cheese Soup
A hearty and creamy potato, bacon, and cheese soup packed with smoky flavors and comforting textures, perfect for cozy gatherings and chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a pan or microwave until crispy, then set aside to drain and crumble.
- Bring water to a boil; add peeled potatoes, chopped onions, bacon with some of its grease, salt, pepper, and celery salt or celery.
- Cook potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a separate pot, melt butter and stir in flour to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps, then bring to a simmer.
- Add Velveeta cheese to the milk mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese mixture with the cooked potatoes and bacon, heat through, and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can use half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. To enhance the flavor, try adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or chives. For a more filling soup, consider incorporating diced carrots or celery. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with American recipes like Bacon Southern Baked Beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup warm, garnished with extra crumbled bacon and shredded cheese for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Hot Texas Chili for a comforting dinner spread that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
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 to restore the creamy texture and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid boiling to maintain the soup's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato, Bacon, Cheese Soup contains roughly 1885 calories, with 29g protein, 232g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1612mg per serving (70% 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 prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop further as it sits. Just be sure to reheat it gently and add a little extra milk if it thickens up too much.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta gives a smooth texture, you can use cheddar, gouda, or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on the cheese's melting properties.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze the soup, the texture may change upon thawing due to the dairy. If you plan to freeze, consider omitting the milk and cheese until reheating, then stir them in for a fresher taste.
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).