Creamy Bacon Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Bacon lovers, prepare to be delighted! My Creamy Bacon Soup recipe is set to become your ultimate comfort food, a dish you’ll crave and recreate time and again. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a rich, heartwarming culinary experience perfect for myriad occasions. Whether you need an effortless weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing addition to your next tailgate party, or a soul-soothing meal on a chilly evening, this hearty soup delivers. It masterfully blends the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon with tender, flavorful vegetables, all enveloped in a velvety embrace of cream and sharp cheddar cheese. This deeply satisfying and flavorful soup is destined to be a year-round favorite that your friends and family will enthusiastically request.

The Irresistible Allure of Bacon

There’s something truly magical about bacon, isn’t there? It elevates practically any dish it graces. The savory, smoky aroma, the satisfying sizzle as it cooks, and that perfect crispy texture – it’s an undeniable culinary superstar. I’ll confess, I’m often caught sneaking a piece or two directly from the pan while cooking, which is why I often prepare two packages just to ensure there’s enough for the actual recipe (and for tomorrow’s delightful BLT leftovers!). Bacon isn’t just an ingredient; it’s a flavor foundation, and in this soup, it’s the undisputed hero, imparting a depth and richness that simply can’t be replicated.

Welcoming Soup Season Year-Round

Even when it’s still warm outside, we know that cooler temperatures are always on the horizon, signaling the arrival of prime soup season. There’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of homemade soup, and this creamy bacon creation is the ultimate cozy companion. But don’t relegate this recipe solely to the colder months; its robust flavor and comforting texture make it a fantastic choice any time of year. Keep this versatile and delicious recipe in your culinary arsenal for when you need a little warmth and indulgence. It’s a dish that transcends seasons, bringing joy and satisfaction with every spoonful.

This culinary adventure is proudly sponsored by Iowa Pork. All opinions, and my enduring love for quality pork recipes and Iowa Pork products, are entirely my own.

Why This Creamy Bacon Soup is a Must-Try

If you’re constantly searching for delicious and easy weeknight recipes, this is one post you’ll want to bookmark immediately. Imagine: the perfectly salty crunch of freshly cooked bacon, combined with the luxurious richness of heavy cream, the tangy depth of sour cream, and the undeniable goodness of melted cheddar cheese. This harmonious blend transforms simple ingredients into pure comfort food perfection. When served alongside some warm, crusty bread for dipping and a crisp green salad, it creates a complete and utterly satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic addition to any soup repertoire, offering a gourmet experience with minimal fuss.

Exploring More Hearty Soup Recipes

If you find yourself utterly captivated by the creamy indulgence of this bacon soup, you’re sure to adore these other hearty and flavorful soup recipes from my kitchen: Creamy Potato Soup, a comforting classic; Ham & Bean Soup, a wholesome and robust choice; Cream of Mushroom Soup, rich and earthy; Cream of Celery Soup, surprisingly delicious and creamy; or for something truly unique, this Creamy Cabbage and Bleu Cheese Soup. Each offers its own unique charm and comfort.

The Versatility of Bacon Cream Soup

It truly doesn’t get much simpler or tastier than this delightful bacon cream soup. Designed to be enjoyed year-round with easily accessible, everyday ingredients, this soup is both incredibly hearty and super satisfying. Its rich, savory profile makes it ideal for a quick weeknight meal when time is short, a luxurious weekend brunch addition, or even a substantial weekday lunch that will keep you feeling full and happy. Beyond its immediate deliciousness, this soup is also perfect for meal prepping. Make a double batch, and you’ll have a go-to meal ready in the freezer for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t an option. Its flavor holds up beautifully, making it a reliable and comforting choice whenever hunger strikes.

Feel empowered to make this recipe your own by adding more of your favorite vegetables, experimenting with different types of cheese, or adjusting seasonings to suit your palate. This recipe provides a wonderful base for culinary creativity.

Essential Ingredients for This Cream of Bacon Soup Recipe

Crafting this incredible creamy bacon soup relies on a careful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please scroll to the bottom of this post for the full printable recipe card.

• Bacon: The undisputed star of our soup. You’ll need a generous amount of cooked, crispy bacon, along with its precious drippings, to infuse that unmistakable, fabulous bacon flavor throughout the dish. I highly recommend reaching for a package of thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
• Butter: Essential for sautéing our aromatic vegetables and forming the roux. You can use either salted or unsalted butter. If using salted, remember to adjust the amount of additional salt you add later, as the bacon also contributes significant saltiness.
• Celery: Diced celery adds a subtle, refreshing flavor and a pleasant textural contrast to the rich, creamy base of the soup.
• Onion: A fundamental aromatic that enhances the overall depth and sweetness of the soup. Any type of onion – white, yellow, or even red – will work well, but a sweet onion is always my first choice for its mildness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the most vibrant and aromatic garlic flavor, which is crucial for a well-rounded soup. However, jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is used to create a roux, thickening the soup to that desired luscious consistency. For a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute with wheat flour or a suitable gluten-free flour blend.
• Chicken Stock: The liquid foundation of our soup, creating a flavorful broth. Both low-sodium and regular chicken stock work perfectly. Alternatively, vegetable stock, pork stock, or even beef stock can be used depending on what you have on hand and your preferred flavor profile.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream is key to adding a deeply rich, tangy, and savory dimension to this creamy soup. While low-fat options can be used, full-fat delivers superior texture and flavor.
• Heavy Cream: This is what truly makes our soup wonderfully creamy and helps achieve that silky-smooth, luxurious texture we’re aiming for.
• Cheddar Cheese: I specifically use mild cheddar cheese, freshly shredded, to melt seamlessly into the soup, contributing a comforting cheesy flavor and delightful texture.
• Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings are added to taste, allowing you to perfect the flavor balance of your soup.
• Green Onions: Sliced green onions serve as an excellent garnish, not only adding a fresh, zesty flavor but also a vibrant pop of color to the finished dish.

Keep reading for more insightful tips, creative substitutions, and answers to common questions about preparing this irresistible creamy bacon soup.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Cheesy Cream of Bacon Soup

This incredibly comforting soup comes together surprisingly quickly and easily, making it perfect for any day of the week. Follow these steps for a perfect bowl:

1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by placing your bacon slices in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once cooked, remove the crispy bacon from the Dutch oven and place it on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess grease. Allow the bacon to cool completely, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside for later.

2. Prepare the Pan: Carefully reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the rendered bacon grease in the Dutch oven – this fat is crucial for flavor! Drain any remaining grease. For a cleaner soup base, you can quickly wipe the bottom of the pan clean with a paper towel, leaving just the reserved drippings.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Return the Dutch oven with the reserved bacon grease to medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and tender, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the aromatic foundation of your soup.

4. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flour coats all the vegetables and cooks slightly. This forms your roux, which will thicken the soup.

5. Simmer the Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken stock, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the celery reaches your desired tenderness. The soup will begin to thicken during this time.

6. Add the Creaminess: Reduce the stove heat to low. Whisk in the heavy cream and sour cream until fully incorporated and smooth. Ensure the soup doesn’t come to a rolling boil after adding the dairy to prevent curdling.

7. Melt the Cheese: Stir in a little more than half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly into the soup, creating a rich, cheesy texture. Reserve the remaining cheese for serving as a garnish.

8. Fold in Bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled cooked bacon. This ensures the bacon retains some of its texture and distributes its smoky flavor throughout the soup.

9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your rich, creamy bacon soup hot! Garnish each bowl generously with the reserved shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh green onions, and a side of crusty bread perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of this deliciousness.

Serving and Storage Tips for Your Creamy Bacon Soup

To ensure you enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Creamy Bacon Soup, here are some practical serving and storage recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: Beyond the suggested crusty bread and green onions, consider adding a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick, a dollop of extra sour cream, or even some fresh chives for an added burst of flavor and color. A side of a light, crisp salad perfectly balances the richness of the soup.
• Storing Leftovers: Any leftover soup should be cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
• Freezing: This soup freezes remarkably well! Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently, until it is heated through. If using a microwave, reheat in a covered microwave-safe bowl to prevent splattering and ensure even heating. Avoid boiling the soup vigorously, as this can sometimes cause the dairy components to separate.

Love It? Pin It!

If you’re already envisioning making this incredibly creamy bacon soup, don’t let this recipe slip away! Be sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever a craving for ultimate comfort food strikes. Share the love and deliciousness!

Personalize Your Plate: Delicious Substitutions & Variations

Remember, cooking is an art form, and you should never be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! When it comes to making substitutions or adding variations to recipes, embrace ingredients that truly suit your personal taste preferences and any dietary needs you might have. Make this creamy bacon soup uniquely yours with these ideas:

• Garlic Alternatives: If fresh garlic isn’t on hand, garlic powder is a perfectly acceptable substitute. Start with about ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of powder, adjusting the amount based on how intensely garlicky you prefer your soup.
• Cooking Fat Swap: For a lighter touch or if you’re out of butter, a drizzle of olive oil or your preferred vegetable oil can be used to sauté the vegetables.
• Broth Variety: Feel free to experiment with different broth flavors. While chicken broth is standard, vegetable broth offers a lighter flavor profile, while pork or beef broth can add even more savory depth.
• Cheese Choices: Don’t limit yourself to mild cheddar! Use your favorite cheese or whatever you have readily available. Sharp cheddar, Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda could lend interesting new dimensions of flavor.
• Onion Alternatives: For a slightly different, milder flavor, substitute the regular onion with leeks. Be sure to clean them thoroughly before dicing.
• Make it a Heartier Meal: Transform this into a creamy bacon potato soup by adding diced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes into the Dutch oven along with the onion and celery. They will soften and contribute to the soup’s body.
• Spice it Up: For those who love a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some red pepper flakes can add a delightful warmth to the soup.
• Herbaceous Additions: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary (sparingly), or parsley stirred in at the end can elevate the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by adding other finely diced vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach towards the end of cooking.

FAQs About Creamy Bacon Soup

Have some questions about making or enjoying creamy bacon soup? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

• Is cream of bacon soup a real thing? Absolutely! While perhaps less common than cream of mushroom or chicken, this recipe unequivocally proves that cream of bacon soup is not only a real thing but also a delightfully creamy, silky-smooth culinary marvel with an unmistakably rich bacon flavor.
• What makes soup creamier? Achieving a luxuriously creamy soup primarily involves incorporating real dairy products like heavy cream, sour cream, or even full-fat yogurt. A well-made roux (a mixture of fat and flour) also plays a crucial role in thickening and enriching the soup’s texture. For an even smoother consistency, pureeing some or all of the vegetables (or the entire soup) with an immersion blender or food processor can create a velvety finish.
• Does Campbell’s make a cream of bacon soup? Yes, Campbell’s does offer a condensed cream of bacon soup. However, for a truly authentic and superior flavor, I always prefer making “cream of” soups from scratch using fresh, real ingredients. This allows for greater control over the flavor profile and avoids artificial additives.
• What is bacon soup made of? Bacon soup can vary widely in its ingredients, but the core components typically include bacon (of course!) and a flavorful soup stock or broth as its base. Common additions often include a medley of vegetables like onions, celery, and garlic. If it’s a creamy soup, dairy products such as cream, sour cream, or sometimes yogurt are integral to achieving its signature rich and smooth texture.
• Can I make this soup gluten-free? Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when making the roux. Ensure your chicken stock is also certified gluten-free.
• How can I prevent the cream from curdling? To prevent dairy from curdling, always add cream and sour cream when the soup is at a low simmer or has been reduced to low heat. Avoid bringing the soup to a rapid boil after dairy has been added. Tempering the cream (mixing a small amount of hot soup into the cream before adding it to the pot) can also help.

Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Bacon Soup

Elevate your creamy bacon soup from delicious to unforgettable with these tried-and-true tips:

• For an Ultra-Smooth Soup: If you desire a perfectly smooth, restaurant-quality texture, consider pureeing the sautéed vegetables into the soup base using an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer it to a food processor in batches, before stirring in the bacon and cheese. This creates an incredibly velvety consistency.
• Fresh Herb Garnish: If you have fresh herbs on hand, such as chopped parsley, chives, or even a sprig of thyme, sprinkle them on as a garnish. They not only add a beautiful presentation but also introduce a fresh, aromatic layer of flavor.
• Bacon Bit Boost: Should you find yourself a little short on cooked bacon for garnishing, a dusting of store-bought bacon bits can be a quick and easy alternative to add that extra bacon punch and visual appeal.
• Don’t Skimp on Bacon Quality: Since bacon is the star, investing in a good quality, thick-cut bacon will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor and texture of your soup.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. Bacon and broth can vary in saltiness, so you might need more or less salt and pepper.

Iowa Pork: A Foundation of Quality

Did you know that approximately one-third of all the pork consumed in the United States originates right here in Iowa? This incredible statistic speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work of Iowa’s pig farmers. When you choose pork, whether it’s from a major supermarket chain or your friendly local butcher, you’re directly supporting countless farm families who pour their heart and soul into their livelihood. As the wife of a man who grew up on a farm in Earling, Iowa (pictured above), where his family proudly raised hogs and cultivated the land, I have a deep appreciation for this industry. To know these dedicated, hardworking individuals is to truly love and respect them and their commitment to providing quality food.

Growing Up with Pork: A Family Tradition

Even though my upbringing wasn’t on an Iowa farm like my husband’s, pork was a staple in our household. I have fond memories of my Mom’s Pork Chops and Mushroom Gravy – a dish that was one of my most cherished comfort foods as a child, and one I continue to prepare for my own family to this day. What my family might not fully realize while they savor my pork recipes is that I’m also secretly delighted by Pork’s impressive nutritional value. It’s a delicious way to incorporate lean protein and essential nutrients into our diet.

You should see the genuine smile that spreads across my son’s face when I announce that breaded pork cutlets are on the dinner menu! I cherish these moments not just because they’re a family favorite, but also because they’re incredibly economical to prepare, making delicious, wholesome meals accessible for everyone.

More Bacon Recipes to Love

If your love for bacon knows no bounds, you’re in luck! Beyond this incredible creamy bacon soup, there’s a whole world of bacon-infused deliciousness waiting to be discovered. If you’re specifically seeking more soups featuring that savory, smoky ingredient, you’ll absolutely adore these recipes:

• Instant Pot Loaded Baked Potato Soup: A rich and hearty soup packed with all your favorite baked potato toppings, including plenty of bacon.
• Zuppa Toscana: A beloved Olive Garden copycat recipe featuring sausage, potatoes, and, of course, bacon.
• Green Bean, and Bacon Soup (pictured above): A rustic and comforting soup that perfectly combines fresh green beans with smoky bacon.

But bacon isn’t just for soup! It also shines brilliantly in appetizers that are guaranteed to impress. Consider these fantastic options:

• BBQ Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts: A classic party snack that’s always a hit.
• Sauerkraut Bacon and Swiss Cheese Ball: A unique and flavorful appetizer, perfect for gatherings.
• Savory Pumpkin Cheese Dip With Bacon: An unexpected yet delicious combination that’s great for fall entertaining.
• Bacon and Cheese Phyllo Wrapped Asparagus: Elegant, crispy, and bursting with flavor.

Each of these recipes leverages the incredible flavor of bacon to create dishes that are truly unforgettable.

Connect with Iowa Pork for More Delicious Recipes

Eager to explore more incredible pork recipes and discover new family favorites? Be sure to follow along with Iowa Pork on their social media channels for year-round culinary inspiration, cooking tips, and engaging content:

• Instagram: For beautiful food photography and daily doses of deliciousness.
• Facebook: Join their community for updates, recipes, and discussions.
• Pinterest: A treasure trove of pinned recipes and meal ideas.
• Twitter: Stay informed with quick updates and news from Iowa Pork.

And for a comprehensive collection of all my personal pork recipes, ranging from quick dinners to slow-cooked feasts, you can find them all here. Happy cooking!

Your New Go-To Comfort Soup Awaits!

So, the next time you’re searching for that quintessential comfort meal – a dish that warms you from the inside out – consider stepping away from the usual chicken noodle soup. Instead, whip up a generous batch of this extraordinary Creamy Bacon Soup. I wholeheartedly guarantee that the blend of farm-fresh cream, the rich, smoky flavor of crispy bacon, and the incredibly luscious, smooth texture will make this one of your new, absolute favorite recipes. It’s a culinary embrace in a bowl, waiting to delight your senses and satisfy your soul!

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Print Recipe

Creamy Bacon Soup Recipe

Creamy Bacon Soup is perfect for an easy dinner, a crowd-pleasing addition to tailgates, or a warming meal on a cold night, this hearty soup combines crispy bacon, tender vegetables, and a velvety blend of cream and cheddar cheese.

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Keyword: bacon, cream of soup, creamy soup, Soup, soup recipes

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 903kcal

Ingredients

• 1 pound bacon + reserved bacon grease
• 2 Tablespoons butter
• 3 stalks celery diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 large onion diced (about 2 cups)
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ½ cup flour
• 32 ounces (4 cups) chicken stock
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 8 ounces mild cheddar cheese shredded, divided
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Green onions sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. Place bacon in a Dutch oven and cook until crispy. Remove bacon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. When it cools off, crumble it. Set aside.
2. Reserve 2-3 Tablespoons of bacon grease then drain the rest, and wipe the bottom of the pan clean.
3. Return the bacon fat to the Dutch oven over medium heat and add in the butter. When it melts add in the onion, celery, and garlic. Saute until the onion is translucent.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the top of the veggies and stir to coat.
5. Pour in the stock, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the celery is your desired tenderness.
6. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the cream and sour cream.
7. Stir in a little more than half of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for serving.
8. Fold in the crumbled bacon.
9. Serve hot topped with shredded cheddar, green onions, and crusty bread for dipping!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat over the stove or in the microwave in a covered microwave-safe bowl to reduce the risk of splattering.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 903kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 83g | Saturated Fat: 42g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 26g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 210mg | Sodium: 1418mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 2260IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 372mg | Iron: 1mg