Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup

Indulge in Creamy Comfort with Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup

Get ready to cozy up with a bowl of pure comfort with our Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup recipe. This creamy concoction combines the rich flavors of potatoes, cream cheese, and bacon for a soul-satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a warm hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the indulgent world of Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 5 cups water
  • 8 oz roasted garlic instant mashed potatoes
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup real bacon bits
  • 1 tbsp dried chives
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tbsp dehydrated minced onion
  • Garnish:
    • 1/4 cup real bacon bits
    • 1 tbsp dried chives

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Soup Base: In a large pot, combine milk, water, and roasted garlic instant mashed potatoes. Stir well to combine.
  2. Cook Over Medium Heat: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add Cream Cheese: Once the soup base is heated through, add cream cheese to the pot, stirring until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the soup.
  4. Incorporate Bacon and Seasonings: Stir in real bacon bits, dried chives, salt, pepper, and dehydrated minced onion. Continue cooking the soup until it reaches your desired consistency and the flavors have melded together.
  5. Serve: Ladle the Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup into bowls and garnish each serving with additional real bacon bits and dried chives. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, bacon-infused goodness!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier texture, you can add an extra dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream to the soup.
  • Customize with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or sliced green onions for additional flavor and color.
  • Make It Spicy: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Option: Replace the roasted garlic instant mashed potatoes with cauliflower florets or mashed cauliflower for a low-carb alternative. Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream instead of milk for a keto-friendly version. Ensure the bacon bits are free from added sugars or fillers.
  • Low Carb Option: Similarly, opt for low-carb instant mashed potatoes or omit them altogether for a lower carb count. Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk to further reduce carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of instant mashed potatoes? Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes for instant mashed potatoes. Simply peel and dice the potatoes, then boil them until tender before adding them to the soup base. Mash them slightly to thicken the soup.
  2. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving, adding extra liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Can I freeze this soup? While you can freeze Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup, keep in mind that dairy-based soups may separate when frozen and reheated. If freezing, do so without the cream cheese and add it when reheating the soup for best results.
  4. Can I use turkey bacon instead of real bacon? Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for real bacon if you prefer. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy, then crumble or chop it before adding it to the soup.

In conclusion, Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup is a heavenly blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and smoky bacon flavor that’s sure to warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a cold winter’s day or simply seeking a delicious way to satisfy your soup cravings, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Cream Cheese Potato Bacon Soup. Your taste buds will thank you for it!