Kennedy
Soup Season is Calling 🍂
As soon as the leaves turn golden and the evenings get chilly, my kitchen transforms into a cozy escape filled with simmering pots and comforting aromas. And this year, there’s one recipe that has quickly become my ultimate fall staple: Potato & Bacon Soup. Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of bowl that feels like a hug after a long day.
If you’ve been craving something that’s both comfort food and clean-living approved, this soup strikes the perfect balance. It uses simple, whole ingredients, gets its richness from creamy potatoes, and is elevated by the smoky crispness of bacon. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy Sundays at home.
In this post, I’ll share not only my go-to recipe but also tips for making it healthier, storage tricks for meal prep, and how to weave this soup into your fall reset routine.
Why Potato & Bacon Soup Belongs in Your Fall Reset Routine 🌿
Fall is a season of letting go and starting fresh — decluttering our homes, cozying up our routines, and nourishing our bodies with grounding foods. Potatoes, being hearty and naturally gluten-free, offer comfort while still being versatile and nutrient-rich. Pair them with smoky bacon, and suddenly you have the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment.
This soup is:
- Cozy: It warms you up on a crisp October night.
- Customizable: Add seasonal veggies like carrots, celery, or leeks.
- Meal-prep friendly: Keeps well for leftovers (and somehow tastes even better the next day!).
- Crowd-pleasing: Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a solo cozy evening, this bowl never disappoints.
The Ingredients: Keeping It Clean & Cozy
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Golds or Russets work best)
- 6 slices of quality bacon (nitrate-free if possible for a cleaner option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or veggie broth
- 1 cup milk or unsweetened oat milk (for a lighter option)
- ½ cup cream (optional for richness)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Optional add-ins: shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a swirl of coconut milk for dairy-free creaminess.
Step-by-Step Recipe 🥄
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add Potatoes & Broth
Stir in potatoes, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 4: Blend for Creaminess
Remove bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to blend half the soup (or transfer half to a blender and return). This creates that creamy, velvety texture while still leaving chunks of potato for heartiness.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Stir in milk (and cream if using). Season with salt and pepper. Crumble in crispy bacon, reserving some for garnish.
Step 6: Serve & Cozy Up
Ladle into bowls, top with remaining bacon, fresh herbs, and (optional) a sprinkle of cheddar. Pair with warm crusty bread for the ultimate fall comfort.
Wellness Tip: Making It a Clean Reset Soup 🌱
Want to lighten things up while keeping flavor intact?
- Swap cream for full-fat coconut milk.
- Use turkey bacon or even smoky tempeh for a plant-based twist.
- Add kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
- Choose bone broth for extra protein and gut-healing benefits.
This way, your soup becomes part of your fall wellness reset, not just a comfort indulgence.
Storing & Reheating
This soup stores beautifully:
- Refrigerate up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze in single servings for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the texture.
Cozy Pairings: Turn Soup Night Into a Ritual
- Light a fall candle (pumpkin, cinnamon, or apple spice).
- Bake a quick batch of clean cornbread or sourdough toast.
- Put on a cozy playlist while the soup simmers.
Fall isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating small rituals that make your home feel like the coziest place on earth.
Why This Soup Is My Fall Go-To
Potato & Bacon Soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience. It’s the meal I crave after decluttering my space, the bowl I serve when friends stop by, and the recipe that feels like home every single time.
If you’re ready to embrace soup season, cozy rituals, and clean comfort food, this recipe is the perfect place to start.
So grab your pot, crisp that bacon, and let this be the soup you’ll be making all fall.
