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Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon & Chives: A Cozy Kitchen Classic

3 min read·5/25/2026·Soup·FridgeChef
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350 kcal
Ingredients
  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Steps
  1. 1**Sauté Aromatics:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. 2**Add Potatoes & Broth:** Stir in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. 3**Thicken the Soup:** In a small bowl, whisk together the milk (or cream) and flour until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the soup has thickened.
  4. 4**Blend (Optional):** For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
  5. 5**Season & Serve:** Season the soup generously with salt and pepper. Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with crumbled bacon and freshly chopped chives.

Recipe: Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon & Chives

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of creamy potato soup on a cool day. This recipe transforms simple potatoes into a rich, flavorful dish, enhanced by the savory crunch of bacon and the fresh bite of chives. It’s a fantastic way to use up those potatoes in your pantry and create a meal that feels both elegant and incredibly comforting.

Make it Your Own: Tips for the Perfect Potato Soup

  • Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but Russet potatoes also work well. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes, as they may not break down as smoothly.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a bay leaf to the broth while simmering the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Remove it before blending.
  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
  • Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a pleasant kick.
  • Garnish Galore: Beyond bacon and chives, consider toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy fried onions.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 350-450 (varies based on milk/cream and bacon amount)
  • Protein: 10-15g
  • Fat: 20-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, potato soup can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash more broth or milk if it has thickened too much.
  • Q: How can I make the soup richer? A: Use heavy cream instead of milk, or stir in a tablespoon of butter or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
  • Q: What if I don't have bacon? A: You can omit the bacon entirely or substitute with crispy fried onions, toasted croutons, or even some sautéed mushrooms for a different flavor profile.

Enjoy this delightful creamy potato soup! It's a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. For more comforting recipes, explore our collection of hearty meals.

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