Comfort food reaches a whole new level with this hearty Potato and Turkey Bacon Soup paired with cheesy toast. Creamy, smoky, and full of flavor, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The turkey bacon adds a savory kick, while the cheesy toast makes it an irresistible duo. This recipe is easy to prepare, satisfying, and will quickly become a favorite for family dinners or chilly evenings.
Let’s dive into the details and make this delicious meal step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for warming up on a cold day.
• Smoky Flavor: The smoked paprika and turkey bacon give the soup a rich depth of flavor.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Versatile: Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To sauté the aromatics and turkey bacon.
• 6 slices turkey bacon: Chopped for a smoky, savory flavor.
• 1 onion: Diced to add sweetness and depth.
• 3 garlic cloves: Minced for a robust, aromatic base.
• 4 large potatoes: Peeled and diced for a creamy, hearty texture.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, herbal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a touch of warmth and smokiness.
For the Cheesy Toast:
• 4 slices of crusty bread: Such as sourdough or French bread.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of your choice.
• 1 tablespoon butter: For spreading on the bread before toasting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup
Sauté the Turkey Bacon and Aromatics
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 3–4 minutes until crispy. Remove half the bacon and set it aside for garnish.
3. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Potatoes and Broth
5. Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them with the turkey bacon and onion mixture.
6. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and smoked paprika, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Blend for Creaminess (Optional)
8. For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree half of the mixture directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender and return it to the pot.
Step 2: Make the Cheesy Toast
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each slice.
4. Bake in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Serve and Garnish
1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Top each bowl with the reserved crispy turkey bacon.
3. Serve hot with cheesy toast on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Potato and Turkey Bacon Soup
• Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
• Blend to Your Preference: Blend the soup fully for a silky consistency or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
• Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Gouda for the toast.
• Add Vegetables: Include chopped carrots, celery, or corn for extra nutrients and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
2. Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely. Freeze the soup (without the cheesy toast) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. What can I use instead of turkey bacon?
You can substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon, pancetta, or even smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
The soup itself is gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth. For the cheesy toast, opt for gluten-free bread.
5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and omit the turkey bacon. For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.
Warm, creamy, and satisfying, this Potato and Turkey Bacon Soup with Cheesy Toast is the perfect comfort food to enjoy any day of the week. Try it tonight and savor the delicious combination of smoky soup and gooey, cheesy bread!