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Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Beef Bacon

This creamy potato leek soup with beef bacon is a comforting dish that warms the soul. With its rich flavors and smooth texture, it’s perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and diced
  • 3 large leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
  • 6 strips of thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the 6 strips of bacon for about 10 minutes until crispy. Be careful not to burn them, as they will become bitter.
  2. Remove the bacon from the pot and let it drain on a paper towel. Leave the rendered fat in the pot.
  3. Add the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once melted, add the 1 diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft.
  4. Add the 3 sliced leeks and the 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the leeks are soft and fragrant.
  5. Add the 4 peeled and diced potatoes, 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, and 1 bay leaf. Stir well to combine the spices evenly.
  6. Pour in the 4 cups of broth (chicken or vegetable) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  7. Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy. Alternatively, you can blend it in batches in a stand blender, but be careful not to overheat it.
  8. Stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream and reheat the soup without bringing it to a boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Before serving, add the crispy bacon back into the soup and optionally garnish with fresh chives or parsley. Serve the soup hot in bowls.

Nutrition

Keywords: Avoid boiling the soup too vigorously after adding the cream to maintain its creaminess. Use fresh herbs for a more intense flavor, and consider adding cheese or spices for variations.