Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a steaming bowl of soup made with simple, wholesome ingredients. This Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup brings together smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and hearty potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for cozy dinners on chilly nights.
This rustic soup has deep roots in European and American farmhouse cooking, where humble ingredients were transformed into nourishing meals for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Hearty & filling: Packed with potatoes and cabbage for a satisfying meal.
- Smoky & savory: Bacon adds depth and richness.
- Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive pantry staples.
- Perfect for make-ahead: Tastes even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes (Yukon gold or russet), peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (if needed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Add diced potatoes, cabbage, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir to coat in the bacon drippings.
Step 4: Add Broth & Simmer
Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20–25 minutes, until potatoes and cabbage are tender.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Stir bacon back into the soup. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread.
Variations
- Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or milk before serving.
- Irish-Inspired: Add carrots and leeks for a heartier Irish-style soup.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil with extra smoked paprika for flavor.
Tips for Success
- Cut potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd bacon while frying; cook in batches if necessary.
- Make ahead: Flavors deepen overnight; reheat gently before serving.
- Serve with bread: A crusty baguette or cornbread pairs perfectly.
Why This Soup Works
This recipe balances smoky, savory bacon with tender cabbage and hearty potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal. It’s rustic and nourishing, perfect for cold evenings, yet light enough to enjoy any time of year.
It’s proof that with just a few humble ingredients, you can make a meal that feels indulgent and comforting.
Smoky bacon, tender cabbage, hearty potatoes — this Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is comfort food at its finest.
