Creamy Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream

There’s nothing quite like a rich, creamy soup on a chilly evening. This Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream is the ultimate comfort food—warm, savory, and packed with irresistible flavors. The crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, the Parmesan cheese brings a deep umami taste, and the sour cream gives it the perfect tangy balance.

This recipe is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a cozy appetizer, this soup is a must-try.

Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 6 medium-sized russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 strips of bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For Garnishing:

• ½ cup sour cream
• Chopped green onions or parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Potatoes

1. Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Simmer for 15–20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

1. Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts and the soup turns thick and creamy.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).

Step 5: Blend for a Smoother Texture (Optional)

• For a chunky soup: Serve as is.
• For a creamier soup: Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, blend 1–2 cups in a regular blender and return it to the pot.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top each serving with a spoonful of sour cream and crispy bacon.
3. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and extra Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream

✅ Ultra Creamy & Flavorful – The combination of Parmesan, sour cream, and heavy cream makes every spoonful rich and satisfying.

✅ Perfect Comfort Food – Ideal for cold nights, this soup warms you from the inside out.

✅ Customizable Texture – Blend it smooth or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 45 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner.

Expert Tips for the Best Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream

✔️ Use High-Quality Parmesan – Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the depth of flavor.

✔️ Choose the Right Potatoes – Russet potatoes work best as they break down nicely, creating a creamy texture.

✔️ Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat – Cooking the onions in bacon fat adds an extra layer of smoky richness.

✔️ Adjust the Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

✔️ Make It Ahead – This soup tastes even better the next day! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Soup Without Bacon?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and sauté the onions in butter or olive oil instead.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How Can I Thicken the Soup?

If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water while simmering.

What Can I Serve with This Soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast
• Grilled cheese sandwiches
• Side salad with a light vinaigrette

This Soup with Potatoes, Bacon, Parmesan, and Sour Cream is the definition of comfort food. It’s easy to make, incredibly rich, and packed with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner!

Try it out and let me know how you liked it! Happy cooking!