Method: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
- Prepare the Bacon: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the Fat: Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Cook the Onions: In the same pot, add the chopped onion to the bacon drippings. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
- Add Potatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Ensure the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
- Make a Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate into Soup: Slowly pour the roux into the pot with the potatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Add the heavy cream for an extra layer of richness.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
- Partially Blend: For a creamy yet textured soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the potatoes directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer about half the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in half of the crispy bacon pieces for flavor infusion.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and the remaining crispy bacon.
Tips for the Perfect Creamy Potato Soup
- Potato Selection: Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, which helps create a naturally creamy soup.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more milk or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Replace bacon drippings with olive oil or butter for sautéing.