Bacon, Mushroom & Swiss Cheese Soup

This Bacon, Mushroom & Swiss Cheese Soup combines savory flavors of crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Swiss cheese to create a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you’re a fan of rich, cheesy soups or just love the combination of bacon and mushrooms, this recipe delivers a luscious bowl of warmth that will leave you craving more. The silky texture from the heavy cream and the depth of flavor from the bacon and mushrooms make this soup a standout, while the Swiss cheese adds a delightful richness. It’s the perfect meal for cozy nights in, or when you want to impress guests with a homemade, gourmet dish that’s easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful and Hearty

The combination of bacon, mushrooms, and Swiss cheese creates a depth of flavor that’s both savory and rich, making this soup incredibly satisfying.

2. Quick to Make

With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting, homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Creamy and Indulgent

The heavy cream and shredded Swiss cheese give the soup a velvety texture and rich, indulgent taste that feels like a treat in every bite.

4. Bacon Lovers’ Dream

If you love bacon, this soup is for you! Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.

5. Versatile and Customizable

You can add extra vegetables like carrots or spinach, or even swap out the Swiss cheese for another cheese variety, making this soup easy to adapt to your preferences.

Ingredients

• Bacon
• Onion
• Mushrooms
• Garlic
• Flour
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Swiss cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for Gruyère, cheddar, or a combination for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: For a heartier soup, add carrots, celery, or spinach to the mix.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to create a vegetarian version of this soup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Mushrooms

Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and tender.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to absorb the bacon grease and create a thickening base for the soup.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 6: Add the Heavy Cream and Cheese

Pour in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy, cheesy base.

Step 7: Season and Garnish

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Once the soup reaches your desired consistency and flavor, serve it in bowls, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and chopped parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re concerned about the sodium content, use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the salt levels accordingly.
• Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer, or add more flour to the base. Be sure to cook the flour thoroughly to avoid a raw taste.
• Blend for Smoothness: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender or regular blender to purée the soup before adding the cream and cheese.
• Bacon Substitution: If you don’t have bacon, you can substitute with pancetta or smoked sausage for a similar depth of flavor.

How to Serve

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad to balance the richness. It also works as a starter for a hearty dinner, like a roasted chicken or steak meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop while stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after reheating due to the cream. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup is too thick after refrigerating or freezing, add a little extra broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, like cheddar, Gruyère, or even fontina.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to make a vegetarian version.

3. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for some heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the cream may cause slight texture changes when reheated.

5. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, though the soup will be slightly less rich.

6. How can I make this soup thicker?

You can add more flour to the base or cook the soup longer to reduce it. If you prefer a smooth texture, blending part of the soup can help thicken it.

7. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?

Yes, fresh mushrooms are ideal for this recipe. Sauté them with the onions for a flavorful base.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

9. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots or spinach to make the soup heartier.

10. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

This Bacon, Mushroom & Swiss Cheese Soup is the perfect comfort food for cold nights. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a main course or a starter, this soup is a great way to indulge in something warm and satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious, homemade soup in no time.

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