Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 slices of bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Cheesy Toast:
4 slices of crusty bread
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (reserved from soup)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Add the diced potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot.
Add the diced potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 4: Blend and Thicken
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesy Toast
Preheat the oven’s broiler.
Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and top each slice with shredded cheddar cheese and reserved bacon bits.
Broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of crispy bacon.
Serve with the cheesy toast on the side or for dipping.
Tips for Success
For extra flavor: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions.
Adjust texture: Blend the soup completely for a velvety finish or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
Make it heartier: Add cooked corn or peas for more substance.
Enjoy!
This Potato and Bacon Soup with Cheesy Toast is comfort food at its finest, combining the creamy richness of the soup with the irresistible crunch of cheesy, bacon-topped toast. Perfect for a cozy evening!
