When I first whipped up this Wisconsin Bacon and Potato Cheese Soup Recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it became a family favorite. The smoky aroma of bacon mixed with creamy, cheesy goodness made the kitchen feel warm and inviting.

I loved how each bite brought a perfect balance of tender potatoes, crisp bacon bits, and melted cheddar. It’s the kind of hearty comfort food that feels like a big hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Soup

Here’s everything you need to make this rich and comforting soup come to life. Use the freshest ingredients for the tastiest results!

4 tablespoons butter for sautéing vegetables and adding a buttery richness.
¾ cup baby carrots, diced, for adding a slight sweetness and color to your soup.
2 celery stalks, chopped, to bring texture and a hint of earthiness.
1 medium onion, diced, for a flavorful soup base.
1 red bell pepper, chopped, to add a pop of color and mild sweetness.
1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced, for an umami kick that balances the cheese.
4 medium potatoes, diced, for a creamy, hearty texture.
4 cups chicken broth to form the flavorful liquid base of the soup.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour for thickening the soup.
2 cups half and half cream to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled, for a smoky, savory note in every bite.
½ teaspoon dry mustard for a tangy depth that enhances the cheese.
1 teaspoon Frank’s hot sauce for a gentle kick of heat.
½ teaspoon garlic salt for added savoriness.
Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning to your liking.
2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, for gooey, cheesy goodness.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 6 hearty portions.

Creative Variations to Make It Your Own

There are plenty of ways to customize this soup to make it fit your preferences while keeping it delicious.

Protein Boost: Try adding shredded chicken, ground turkey, or sausage to make it heartier.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter, cream, and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Extra Veggies: Toss in kale, spinach, or corn for added nutrients and texture.
Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.
Turn Up the Heat: Add cayenne or more hot sauce for extra spice!

Cooking Time Breakdown

Making this soup doesn’t require much time, and the results are so worth it.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Essential Equipment to Get the Job Done

Before cooking, gather these tools to make the process smoother.

Large Pot for sautéing veggies and simmering your soup.
Saucepan to boil the potatoes separately for full flavor.
Wooden Spoon for evenly combining ingredients.
Cutting Board and Knife to prep all your veggies with ease.

How to Make Wisconsin Bacon and Potato Cheese Soup?

This soup is straightforward to prepare and fills your home with the best aromas. Let’s get started!

Sauté the Vegetables

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in a large pot. Add ¾ cup diced baby carrots, 2 chopped celery stalks, 1 diced onion, 1 chopped red bell pepper, and 1 cup of sliced fresh mushrooms. Cook everything until it’s softened and fragrant. Taking your time on this step helps to build a robust flavor base.

Cook the Potatoes

While the vegetables are cooking, boil 4 medium diced potatoes in a separate saucepan with 4 cups of chicken broth. This step infuses the potatoes with extra flavor as they cook. Once the potatoes are tender, drain and set them aside.

Combine and Thicken

Stir the cooked potatoes into the pot with the vegetables. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour evenly, stirring to coat and thicken the mixture. Begin pouring in 2 cups of half and half cream and stir constantly. The soup will start to thicken beautifully as it heats.

Add the Bold Flavors

Lower the heat and mix in 8 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon, ½ teaspoon dry mustard, 1 teaspoon Frank’s hot sauce, and ½ teaspoon garlic salt. Gradually add 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, stirring well after each addition to ensure it melts smoothly. Avoid boiling after the cheese is added to keep the soup creamy.

Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, and top with crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, or shredded cheese for extra flair. Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping, and enjoy this comforting masterpiece.

Tips for Making This Recipe Even Better

With a few simple tweaks and mindful steps, this soup can reach its full potential.

Grate Fresh Cheese: Always shred cheese from a block for smoother melting. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it can create clumps.
Control the Spice: Reduce or omit the hot sauce for a mild flavor. If you love spice, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne.
Make Bacon Count: Fry bacon ahead of time and use some grease instead of butter for sautéeing veggies.
Thicken Wisely: Add the flour slowly, mixing well, to avoid it clumping in the soup.

How to Serve Wisconsin Bacon and Potato Cheese Soup?

Take your soup to the next level with thoughtful presentation and pairings.

Serve the soup in a crusty bread bowl for a rustic and cozy touch, garnished with crispy bacon, parsley, or green onions. Pair it with warm rolls, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a rounded meal. These additions not only elevate the presentation but add complementary textures and flavors.

Nutritional Information

This soup delivers indulgent flavors in every bite. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 291
Protein: 11g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 20g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep this soup in advance or store leftovers to enjoy later without any hassle.

Refrigeration: Once cooled, keep the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freezing: Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating over low heat for the best texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s what makes this soup so irresistible:

Quick to Make: Despite its complex taste, this dish is ready in under an hour.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of bacon, cheddar, and hearty vegetables makes it unforgettable.
Customizable: Adapt it to fit any dietary requirements or flavor preferences.
Works Year-Round: Perfect for cozy winter nights or casual gatherings any time of the year.
Family Favorite: The creamy and cheesy flavors are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

This Wisconsin Bacon and Potato Cheese Soup is a surefire hit, blending comforting ingredients with an easy-to-follow process. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!