Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch dressing mix
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish
- Sour cream, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step
1. Cook bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble, reserving the bacon grease.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of reserved bacon grease over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add cubed potatoes, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
7. Remove the pot from the heat.
8. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Leave some chunks for texture. Alternatively, carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
9. Stir in milk, softened cream cheese, and ranch dressing mix.
10. Return the pot to low heat and stir until the cream cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Do not boil.
11. Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
12. Serve hot, garnished with remaining bacon, fresh chives, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
The Delicious Details of Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup
This Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It combines the savory goodness of bacon, the creamy richness of potatoes, and the zesty flavor of ranch dressing. The result is a hearty and satisfying soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. It’s surprisingly easy to make and can be customized to your liking.
### Choosing the Right Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are the preferred choice for this soup. They have a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture that works perfectly. Red potatoes can also be used, but they don’t break down as easily, so your soup might be a bit chunkier. Russet potatoes are not recommended, as they can become mealy when overcooked.
### Adding Depth of Flavor
The key to a truly flavorful soup lies in layering the ingredients. Start by rendering the bacon to create a flavorful base. Sautéing the onion and garlic in bacon grease adds even more depth. Chicken broth provides a rich, savory foundation, while the ranch dressing mix delivers a burst of zesty flavor.
### Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture
Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that makes this soup incredibly creamy. Be sure to soften it before adding it to the soup to prevent clumps. An immersion blender is the easiest way to achieve a smooth and creamy texture, but you can also use a regular blender. Just be careful when blending hot liquids. Partial blending is key to maintaining some potato chunks.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Soup
Making this soup is a breeze, but here are some tips and tricks to elevate it from good to great. From flavor enhancements to time-saving techniques, these little additions can make a big difference in the final result. Experiment and discover what works best for your taste buds.
### Make it Vegetarian
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a tablespoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
### Spice it Up
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. You can also use a spicier ranch dressing mix. Alternatively, you can include diced jalapenos with the onions in the beginning.
### Saving Time
To save time, you can use pre-cooked bacon. You can also peel and chop the potatoes ahead of time and store them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Some stores also offer pre-chopped onions for even more convenience.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with other dishes to create a complete meal. Consider serving it with a grilled cheese sandwich, a side salad, or some crusty bread for dipping. The garnishes also add a touch of elegance to the bowl.
### Complementary Sides
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great way to balance the richness of the soup. A grilled cheese sandwich made with sharp cheddar cheese complements the flavors perfectly. Crusty bread, like sourdough or baguette, is ideal for soaking up the creamy broth.
### Garnish Ideas
The classic garnishes for this soup are crumbled bacon, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream. Other options include shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, or a swirl of hot sauce. A sprinkle of paprika adds a pop of color.
### Perfect for Any Occasion
This soup is perfect for a cozy night in, a casual gathering with friends, or even a potluck. It’s easy to make a large batch and can be kept warm in a slow cooker. It is also great for meal prepping since it refrigerates so well.
Variations on a Classic Recipe
The basic recipe for Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup is a great starting point, but there are endless possibilities for customization. Try adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices to create your own unique version. Don’t be afraid to experiment and get creative in the kitchen.
### Adding Vegetables
Corn, peas, carrots, and celery are all great additions to this soup. Add them along with the potatoes for a heartier soup. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or cauliflower, can also be added for extra flavor and texture.
### Cheese Variations
Cheddar cheese is a classic pairing with potatoes and bacon. But you can also try using other cheeses, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. Shredded cheese can be added as a garnish or stirred into the soup for extra creaminess.
### Ranch Dressing Mix Alternatives
If you don’t have ranch dressing mix on hand, you can make your own using dried buttermilk powder, dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. You can also use a different flavor of ranch dressing mix, such as spicy ranch or bacon ranch.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Reheating is easy on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be sure to stir well before serving.
### Refrigerating Instructions
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little milk or broth when reheating.
### Freezing Instructions
For best results, freeze the soup in individual portions. This makes it easy to thaw and reheat only what you need. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
### Reheating Methods
To reheat on the stovetop, gently warm the soup over medium heat, stirring frequently. To reheat in the microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid boiling the soup, as this can cause it to separate.
FAQ About Creamy Bacon Ranch Potato Soup
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, chicken broth, potatoes, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender. Then, stir in the milk, cream cheese, and ranch dressing mix. Blend with an immersion blender if desired. Stir in the bacon before serving.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Prepare the soup according to the instructions and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving. You may need to add a little milk or broth to thin the soup out if it has thickened.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
While it’s best to use fresh potatoes, you can use frozen cubed potatoes in a pinch. However, be aware that the texture of the soup may be slightly different. The frozen potatoes might break down more during cooking. Add the frozen potatoes directly to the pot without thawing.
What if my soup is too thick?
If your soup is too thick, simply add more milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Start with a small amount, about ¼ cup, and stir well. Continue adding liquid until the soup is the right thickness.
What if my soup is too thin?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the soup and bring to a simmer. Cook for a few minutes, until the soup thickens. You can also blend a portion of the soup to thicken it.
