There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of soup, especially when the chill of a brisk evening sets in. I stumbled upon the Best Ever Potato Soup during a particularly gloomy afternoon, yearning for something hearty and satisfying. As I diced the crispy bacon and inhaled the rich, smoky aroma wafting through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but smile. It was the kind of simple pleasure that transforms an ordinary day into something extraordinary.
This creamy potato and bacon chowder isn’t only a feast for your taste buds; it’s a dish that’s effortlessly easy to make—and perfect for impressing guests or indulging on a cozy night in. Packed with tender potatoes, vibrant carrots, and a touch of Velveeta for that luscious texture, this chowder is truly a crowd-pleaser. Ready in just about an hour, it welcomes seconds with open arms. So, grab your aprons and dive into this soulful recipe, because good food has a magical way of bringing us together.
Why is this the Best Ever Potato Soup?
Comfort in Every Spoonful: This chowder wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip it up effortlessly.
Savory Goodness: The blend of crispy bacon and creamy Velveeta elevates the flavors beyond ordinary soup.
Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will relish every bite, ensuring happy faces at the table.
Versatile Option: Great as a starter or a hearty main, it caters to any occasion. You might also want to explore other comforting dishes like our Creamy Tomato Basil Soup.
Best Ever Potato Soup Ingredients
Embrace the heartwarming flavors of this chowder!
For the Chowder
• Bacon – 6 strips, diced for that crispy, smoky essence.
• Potatoes – 3 cups, cubed and peeled to create the perfect creamy base.
• Carrot – 1 small, grated for a touch of sweetness and color.
• Onion – 1/2 cup, chopped to enhance the aroma and flavor.
• Dried Parsley Flakes – 1 tablespoon, adding freshness to every bowl.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, to elevate all the flavors.
• Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon, for a welcome hint of heat.
• Celery Seed – 1/2 teaspoon, imparting a subtle depth.
• Chicken Broth – 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) for a savory liquid base.
• All-Purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons to thicken the chowder perfectly.
• 2% Milk – 3 cups, providing creaminess without overwhelming richness.
• Velveeta – 8 ounces, cubed for that indulgent meltiness.
• Green Onions – 2, thinly sliced and optional, adding a crisp, fresh garnish.
Let the magic of this Best Ever Potato Soup begin with these delightful ingredients!
How to Make Best Ever Potato Soup
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Cook the Bacon: In a large saucepan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the pan for flavor.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the cubed potatoes, grated carrot, and chopped onion to the saucepan. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until the onion is tender and fragrant.
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Season the Base: Stir in the parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and celery seed. This will coat the veggies with savory flavors, bringing the soup to life.
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Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Create the Creamy Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering soup, helping to thicken it beautifully.
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Thicken the Soup: Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes, or until it has thickened to your liking.
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Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low, and fold in the cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir until it’s completely melted and creamy. Finally, add the cooked bacon and green onions if you wish.
Optional: Top with extra crispy bacon for a delicious garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Best Ever Potato Soup Variations
Feel free to make this delicious chowder your own with these exciting twists and swaps!
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Dairy-Free: Replace 2% milk with coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy, and still enjoy that comforting flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to thicken the soup perfectly while keeping it safe for sensitive tummies.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a heat boost that wakes up your taste buds.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in additional vegetables like corn, peas, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and color—perfect for using up leftovers!
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Herby Delight: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary paired with the parsley will elevate the flavors and add a fragrant twist.
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Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile that delights cheese lovers.
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Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or diced ham for a heartier chowder that serves as a full meal treat.
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Smoky Flavor: Try adding a touch of smoked paprika to recreate that irresistible smoky essence from the bacon, perfect for any non-meat eaters!
How to Store and Freeze Best Ever Potato Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious on day two!
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring frequently. If the soup thickens, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Enjoy your Best Ever Potato Soup just like fresh!
What to Serve with Best Ever Potato Soup?
There’s nothing like a cozy meal centered around this rich, creamy chowder filled with flavors that hug you tight.
- Crispy Breadsticks: Flaky and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping into that savory chowder, enhancing its rich texture.
- Garden Salad: A light and crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the chowder’s creaminess and adds freshness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the chowder’s hearty elements.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits provide a warm, comforting pairing that will leave you craving more.
- Brewed Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea soothes and rounds out the meal, softening the richness of the soup.
- Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side dish offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup and enriches the overall dining experience.
Imagine savoring this delicious chowder surrounded by loved ones, each bite evoking warmth and heartfelt connection—it’s what good meals and memories are all about.
Expert Tips for Best Ever Potato Soup
Bacon First: Always cook the bacon first in the same pot, maximizing flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Consistent Chunks: Cut potatoes into uniform cubes; this ensures even cooking and creaminess in the chowder. Try not to make them too large; smaller cubes cook faster.
Thickening Trick: Gradually add your flour and milk mixture to the chowder while stirring to prevent lumps. Not mixing well can lead to a clumpy texture in your Best Ever Potato Soup.
Tasting Matters: Before adding extra seasonings, taste your soup towards the end of cooking. Adjust salt and pepper to preference, bearing in mind that some bacon varieties are saltier than others.
Cheese Choices: While Velveeta is a favorite for creaminess, experimenting with gouda or sharp cheddar can add unique flavors to your chowder.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Ever Potato Soup preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables (potatoes, carrot, and onion) and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in advance. To enhance flavor, you can also cook the bacon ahead of time; just let it cool, crumble it, and store it in a separate container. When you’re ready to enjoy your chowder, simply sauté the prepped veggies in the bacon drippings, add the broth, and follow the rest of the recipe as usual. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of potato chowder just as delicious on a tight schedule!
Best Ever Potato Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for chowder?
Absolutely! For the Best Ever Potato Soup, I recommend using Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. Yukon Golds lend a nice creaminess while keeping their shape, whereas Russets break down to create a smooth texture. Just make sure they are fresh, with no dark spots or sprouting.
How should I store leftovers?
Very easy! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This lets the flavors blend, just like they do in a cozy stew. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the Best Ever Potato Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, pour it into individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens.
What should I do if my chowder is too thick?
No worries! If your Best Ever Potato Soup turns out thicker than you like, simply stir in a little bit of milk or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s all about personal preference—make it as creamy or hearty as your heart desires!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. For dairy-free options, try using oat milk instead of regular milk and a non-dairy cheese alternative. Just keep an eye on seasoning, as some alternatives can alter flavors.
Best Ever Potato Soup with Crispy Bacon Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it's crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels.
- Add the cubed potatoes, grated carrot, and chopped onion to the saucepan. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the onion is tender.
- Stir in the parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and celery seed.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth, then gradually stir into the soup.
- Bring the soup back to a gentle boil and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes, or until thickened.
- Reduce heat to low, fold in the cubed Velveeta until melted. Add the cooked bacon and green onions, if desired.