Creamy Potato Bacon Soup

 

# Creamy Potato Bacon Soup

## The Ultimate Creamy Potato Bacon Soup: Comfort Food That Warms the Soul

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. Among the countless varieties of soup, few can rival the rich, indulgent, and satisfying taste of **Creamy Potato Bacon Soup**. Tender potatoes simmer in a savory broth alongside smoky bacon, hearty ground beef, and vegetables, then finish with a silky cream base that brings everything together.

Perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or serving guests, this slow cooker recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

## Why You'll Love This Soup

* Rich and creamy texture

* Hearty enough for a complete meal

* Easy slow cooker preparation

* Packed with potatoes, bacon, and beef

* Great for leftovers and meal prep

* Family-friendly comfort food

## Ingredients

### For the Soup

* 3½ cups chicken broth

* 4 russet potatoes, peeled and diced

* 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

* 1 yellow onion, diced

* 1 cup shredded carrots

* 1 cup diced celery

* 1 tablespoon dried parsley

* ½ tablespoon garlic powder

* 1 teaspoon dried basil

* 1 teaspoon salt

* ½ teaspoon black pepper

* 1 pound ground beef

* 12 ounces bacon, cooked and chopped

### For the Cream Base

* 3 tablespoons butter

* 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

* 2 cups half-and-half

## Instructions

### Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat:

1. Cook the ground beef until fully browned.

2. Drain excess grease.

3. Set aside.

Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

### Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker

Add the following to the slow cooker:

* Chicken broth

* Potatoes

* Diced tomatoes

* Onion

* Carrots

* Celery

* Parsley

* Garlic powder

* Basil

* Salt

* Pepper

* Cooked ground beef

Stir well to combine.

### Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

* **Low:** 7–8 hours

* **High:** 4–5 hours

The potatoes should be very tender when done.

### Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.

3. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half.

4. Continue stirring until smooth and slightly thickened.

### Step 5: Finish the Soup

Pour the cream mixture into the slow cooker.

Add the chopped bacon and stir well.

Cook for an additional **20–30 minutes** until heated through and creamy.

### Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired.

## Optional Toppings

* Shredded cheddar cheese

* Extra crispy bacon

* Chopped green onions

* Sour cream

* Fresh parsley

* Croutons

## Tips for Success

* Russet potatoes create the creamiest texture because they break down during cooking.

* For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes before adding the cream sauce.

* Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level.

* Add the bacon near the end to help maintain its texture.

* If the soup becomes too thick, stir in extra broth or milk.

## Storage

### Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to **4 days**.

### Freezer

Freeze for up to **2 months**. The texture may change slightly because of the dairy.

## Reheating

### Stovetop

Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

### Microwave

Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until hot.

## Recipe Summary

**Prep Time:** 20 minutes

**Cook Time:** 7–8 hours (Low) or 4–5 hours (High)

**Additional Time:** 30 minutes

**Total Time:** Approximately 8 hours

**Servings:** 8–10

This Creamy Potato Bacon Soup combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, savory beef, vegetables, and a velvety cream base into one 

comforting bowl of homemade goodness. It's the perfect recipe for cold evenings, family gatherings, and anyone craving classic comfort food. 🥔🥓🍲