Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon and Chives is the ultimate comfort food — a bowl full of creamy, velvety potatoes, smoky bacon, and aromatic chives that warms you from the inside out. It’s a classic homestyle soup that perfectly blends hearty and rich flavors with a touch of freshness.

The soup’s texture is wonderfully thick and silky, while the crispy bacon bits add a satisfying crunch and smoky depth. Chives bring in a subtle oniony brightness that cuts through the creaminess, making every spoonful irresistible. Whether served for a cozy lunch or a family dinner on a chilly night, this soup delivers pure comfort in every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes simple, humble ingredients — potatoes, onions, and bacon — and turns them into something luxurious. The aroma of bacon sizzling, the potatoes simmering in creamy broth, and the final swirl of cream and cheese make it feel indulgent without being complicated.

It’s also versatile, filling, and incredibly forgiving — you can customize the flavor, texture, and richness to suit your taste.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Creamy Potato Soup is a must-try because it combines classic comfort with gourmet flavor. The creamy texture, savory bacon, and fresh chives create the perfect balance. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet special enough for a dinner party.

Plus, it’s meal-prep friendly, freezer-safe, and always a crowd-pleaser. Once you’ve made it from scratch, you’ll never go back to canned soup again!

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 45–50 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for flavor depth)

For Garnish:

• Crispy bacon bits
• Chopped fresh chives or green onions
• Extra shredded cheddar (optional)
• Sour cream or a drizzle of cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon pieces and set aside on paper towels.
3. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot (discard the rest).

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add butter to the pot with the bacon fat.
2. Stir in the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Potatoes and Broth

1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, just enough to cover the potatoes.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

Step 4: Create the Cream Base

1. In a small bowl, whisk flour with a bit of milk to form a slurry (this prevents lumps).
2. Stir the slurry into the soup and mix well.
3. Add the remaining milk and optional heavy cream. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Blend (Optional)

• For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup.
• For a chunkier soup, mash some potatoes with a spoon and leave the rest whole.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon

1. Stir in cheddar cheese (if using) until melted and incorporated.
2. Add half the crispy bacon pieces and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top with extra bacon, shredded cheddar, and a sprinkle of fresh chives.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in deep bowls topped with bacon, chives, and cheese.
• Pair with crusty artisan bread, garlic rolls, or a simple green salad.
• For a cozy dinner, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or grilled cheese.

Recipe Tips

• Choose starchy potatoes like russets for a creamy texture, or Yukon golds for a buttery flavor.
• Cook the bacon first — it adds a smoky base flavor to the soup.
• Do not boil after adding cream or cheese, as it can curdle.
• Blend partially for a creamy yet chunky texture that feels rustic.
• Add cheese gradually over low heat to prevent it from clumping.

Recipe Variations

1. Loaded Potato Soup: Add sour cream, extra cheese, and green onions for a loaded-baked-potato vibe.
2. Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon, use olive oil instead, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
3. Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
4. Chunky Style: Leave the potatoes whole and add corn, peas, or carrots for extra texture.
5. Cheese Upgrade: Try smoked Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a gourmet twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Can be frozen for 2–3 months. (Note: Dairy may separate slightly, but it reheats well when stirred.)
• Reheating: Warm slowly over low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Immersion blender (optional)
• Ladle for serving

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it stores and reheats beautifully. Just wait to add the cheese and bacon until serving for the best texture.

Q2: What type of potato works best?
Russet potatoes give a creamy texture, while Yukon golds add a buttery flavor and stay slightly firmer.

Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes — use plant-based milk and vegan butter, and skip the cheese. It will still be delicious!

Q4: My soup is too thick — how can I fix it?
Add extra broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q5: Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, but freshly cooked bacon gives a better smoky flavor to the base.

Conclusion

Creamy Potato Soup with Bacon and Chives is a soul-warming, cozy classic that proves comfort food can be both simple and elegant. The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and aromatic chives creates a balance of richness and freshness that’s absolutely satisfying.

Perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or a lazy Sunday lunch, this soup will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Serve it with a hunk of crusty bread, and you’ve got the ultimate bowl of comfort.