Jump to Recipe Print RecipeOn a crisp evening, I found myself in the kitchen, the comforting aroma of simmering ingredients wafting through the air as I stirred my latest creation: Creamy Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup. There’s something truly magical about this hearty dish, blending crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and vibrant cabbage to create a bowl-full of warmth. Not only does this recipe offer a delightful taste experience, but it’s also adaptable to suit your preferences—whether you’re looking to add a smoky sausage or swap in some fresh greens, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it’s a quick and easy way to turn a handful of simple ingredients into a satisfying comfort food that brings everyone together. So, are you ready to embrace the cozy flavors of Ireland in your kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why is this soup a must-try? Comforting and hearty, this Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is perfect for chasing away the chill on those cold nights. Versatile by nature, it easily adapts to your cravings—whether you want to jazz it up with spicy sausage or keep it vegetarian. Quick to prepare, this recipe lets you create a warm, satisfying meal in no time. Rich flavors from crispy bacon and tender cabbage come together in a creamy broth that wraps you in coziness. Serve with crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love, making it a go-to for family gatherings. If you’re craving more robust flavors, consider checking out our tips on substituting ingredients. Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Ingredients For the Soup • Irish Bacon – Adds savory depth and richness; substitute with thick-cut regular bacon for a similar flavor. • Onion – Provides sweetness and aromatic base; shallots can be a delicious alternative. • Garlic – Brings a fragrant hit of flavor; always opt for fresh garlic over powdered. • Chicken Broth – Forms the soup’s flavorful base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. • Potatoes – Provide substance and heartiness; red potatoes can offer a firmer texture. • Green Cabbage – Adds a fresh crunch; try Savoy cabbage for a unique leaf texture. • Carrots – Enhance sweetness and color; parsnips can serve as a unique substitution. • Bay Leaf – Infuses deep flavors; remember to remove before serving. • Dried Thyme – Adds herbal notes; you may use fresh thyme, adjusting the quantity to taste. • Black Pepper – Provides a nice subtle heat; freshly ground pepper is always best. • Salt – Balances all the flavors; season lightly to your personal preference. • Heavy Cream – For extra creaminess; use half-and-half or omit for a lighter, dairy-free option. • Fresh Parsley – A delightful garnish that imparts a fresh note; chives can also work well here. Enjoy crafting this comforting Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup that invites warmth into every bowl! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Step 1: Cook the Bacon In a large pot, over medium heat, crisp about 8 ounces of diced Irish bacon until golden brown, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes. You want it evenly cooked with a nice crunch. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the savory drippings in the pot for added flavor in your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Using the same pot with the reserved drippings, add one chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is tender and aromatic. This will form a sweet, flavorful base for your hearty soup. Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Potatoes Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add about 2-3 medium diced potatoes to the pot. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften while absorbing all those delightful flavors. Step 4: Add the Vegetables Now it’s time to stir in about 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 2 sliced carrots, along with a bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer again for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage and carrots are tender, stirring occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly in your delicious Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup. Step 5: Incorporate the Cream If desired, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream to the pot and heat through on low for about 2-3 minutes. Be careful to avoid boiling the soup at this stage to prevent the cream from curdling, leading to a wonderfully creamy texture that enhances the flavors of your hearty soup. Step 6: Season and Serve Finally, season your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving, and garnish with the crispy bacon bits and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, paired with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal. Make Ahead Options These Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes) and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, which keeps them fresh and ready for cooking. The bacon can also be cooked ahead and stored in an airtight container, where it retains its crunch and savory flavor until you’re ready to combine everything. When you’re set to enjoy your cozy meal, simply sauté the prepped vegetables in the bacon drippings, add the broth and potatoes, cook as directed, and finish with the cream right before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious, hearty soup with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze! What to Serve with Creamy Irish Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Cozy up your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich and hearty flavors of this comforting soup. Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch and soaks up the creamy broth beautifully, enhancing each spoonful. Traditional Irish Soda Bread: This warm, slightly sweet bread brings a rustic charm that pairs seamlessly with the savory notes of the soup. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing flavors. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes caramelized to perfection will echo the soup’s flavors while providing a delightful textural contrast. Irish Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp Irish cheddar and creamy blue cheese will add an extra layer of flavor for a bold taste experience. Savory Cheese Scones: Fluffy and cheesy, they provide a warm, buttery bite that wonderfully compliments the hearty soup. Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly drink enhances the cozy comfort vibe while the crisp flavor cuts through the creaminess of the soup. Dark Chocolate Brownies: End on a sweet note with rich brownies; the slight bitterness of dark chocolate is a lovely way to finish a comforting meal. Explore these pairings to elevate your dinner, and let each bite of your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup be even more delightful! Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Variations Feel free to get creative with your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup—there are so many delightful ways to customize this cozy dish! Add Sausage: Toss in slices of Irish sausage for a heartier, meat-lover’s version. The rich, savory flavor pairs wonderfully with the vegetables. Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a warming heat that elevates the soup’s comforting essence. It’s a small tweak that makes a big impact! Vegetarian Version: Ditch the bacon and substitute with vegetable broth. To add depth, mix in smoked paprika, infusing the soup with a delightful smokiness that will surprise and please. Cheesy Twist: Melt in some shredded cheddar for a creamy, cheesy delight. The smoothness of cheese combined with the broth creates a deliciously indulgent experience. Add Barley: Introduce pearl barley for added chew and nutrition, making your soup even heartier while also boosting its fiber content. It’s a fantastic way to enhance texture! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch. A simple herb swap can take your soup from familiar to fantastical! Cabbage Variety: Switch up your cabbage with kale or collard greens for a unique flavor profile and texture. Each green brings its own personality to the comforting mix! Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil or sprinkle sesame seeds for an intriguing nutty twist that contrasts beautifully with the creamy broth. Explore these variations for an exciting take on your comforting Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen! And if you’re curious about enhancing your meals further, check out our engaging tips on substituting ingredients for even more culinary inspiration! How to Store and Freeze Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Fridge: Store your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious on day two! Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for 2-3 months; remember to omit the cream before freezing and add it during reheating for a creamy texture. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and always adjust seasoning to taste after reheating. Expert Tips for Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Avoid Curdling Cream: Heat gently after adding cream to prevent curdling; always keep the soup below boiling temperature for a smooth finish. Homemade Flavor: Using homemade chicken broth or bone broth gives your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup a deeper, richer flavor compared to store-bought. Thicken Wisely: If your soup is too thin, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for added thickness, or mix a slurry of flour and water for a quick fix. Optimize Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to preference for a well-balanced and flavorful soup. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit bacon and substitute with vegetable broth, then add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Recipe FAQs What type of bacon is best for this soup? Absolutely! For the best flavor, use Irish bacon, as it adds savory depth and richness. However, thick-cut regular bacon works wonderfully as a substitute if Irish bacon isn’t available. How should I store leftover Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup? After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated! Can I freeze Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup? Very much so! To freeze the soup, allow it to cool and pour it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to omit the cream before freezing; add it during reheating for that creamy texture we all love. What should I do if my soup is too thin? If you find your Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup is thinner than desired, don’t worry! Mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot with a fork to thicken the broth. Alternatively, you can make a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a bit of water and stirring it in until thickened. Is this soup safe for those with dietary restrictions? Of course! This recipe can be adapted to be vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead. For a dairy-free version, simply skip the cream or replace it with coconut cream. Always double-check the ingredients for any allergens to ensure everyone can enjoy it! Irresistibly Cozy Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup Recipe A comforting and hearty Bacon Cabbage and Potato Soup that blends crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and vibrant cabbage for a warm meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: IrishCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup8 ounces Irish Bacon or thick-cut regular bacon1 Onion chopped; or shallots2 cloves Garlic minced; fresh preferred6 cups Chicken Broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian option2-3 medium Potatoes diced; red potatoes for firmer texture4 cups Green Cabbage shredded; or Savoy cabbage2 Carrots sliced; or parsnips1 Bay Leaf remember to remove before serving1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or fresh thyme, adjust quantity to tasteto taste Black Pepper preferably freshly groundto taste Salt season lightly1 cup Heavy Cream use half-and-half or omit for lighter optionto garnish Fresh Parsley or chives Equipment Large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, over medium heat, crisp about 8 ounces of diced Irish bacon until golden brown, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the drippings in the pot.Using the same pot, add one chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until tender.Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add about 2-3 medium diced potatoes. Increase heat to bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.Stir in about 4 cups of shredded green cabbage and 2 sliced carrots, along with a bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and heat through on low for about 2-3 minutes, avoiding boiling.Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving, garnishing with bacon bits and parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 2mg NotesFor a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable broth, adding smoked paprika for flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for 2-3 months without cream. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
