Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort

When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving a warm, comforting meal, there’s nothing better than a bowl of Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup. With its velvety texture, crispy bacon bits, and the subtle nuttiness of Brussels sprouts, this soup strikes the perfect balance between rich and wholesome. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal yet light enough to enjoy as a starter.

Imagine the aroma of sizzling bacon, sautéed garlic, and herbs wafting through your kitchen—this recipe is a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with loved ones. Let’s dive into how you can make this indulgent, restaurant-worthy soup in the comfort of your home.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Every spoonful combines crispy, smoky bacon with the tender sweetness of Brussels sprouts, all swimming in a creamy, savory broth.

You’ll also appreciate how versatile it is. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, prepping meals for the week, or serving something elegant to guests, this soup fits the occasion perfectly. Plus, it’s packed with vegetables and flavor, making it a satisfying and nutritious choice.

Ingredients for Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup

Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to make this flavorful soup:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Apple-smoked bacon	8 ounces	Chopped, for crispy topping
Olive oil	3 tablespoons	Adds richness to the soup
Ghee or butter	1 tablespoon	Enhances the sautéed flavors
Onion, diced	1 medium	Adds sweetness and depth
Salt and black pepper	To taste	For seasoning the base
Italian seasoning	2 teaspoons	For herby flavor
White pepper	A pinch	Adds subtle heat and complexity
Garlic, minced	6 large cloves	For a savory aroma
All-purpose flour	1 tablespoon	Thickens the soup base
Chicken stock or broth	6 cups	Forms the flavorful soup base
Russet potatoes, diced	2 large (2 ½–3 cups)	Makes the soup hearty and creamy
Brussels sprouts, shaved	1 pound	Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor
Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped	1 tablespoon	For garnish and freshness
Lemon juice	Small squeeze (optional)	Brightens the flavor

How to Make Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup

1. Cook the Bacon

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
2. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until crispy.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add olive oil and ghee (or butter) to the pot with the bacon drippings.
2. Stir in the diced onion, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Add Seasoning and Garlic

1. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and white pepper.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant.

4. Thicken the Base

1. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion and garlic mixture.
2. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to create a light roux. This will help thicken the soup for a creamy texture.

5. Build the Soup

1. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to combine.
2. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

6. Add the Brussels Sprouts

1. Stir in the shaved Brussels sprouts and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes.
2. This allows the Brussels sprouts to soften and their flavors to meld with the soup.

7. Finish with Herbs and Lemon

1. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley.
2. If desired, add a small squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the soup.

8. Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with crispy bacon bits.
2. Serve warm, ideally with a slice of rustic bread or a crunchy side salad.

Why This Soup Stands Out

1. Perfect Balance of Flavor

The smoky, savory bacon pairs beautifully with the nutty sweetness of Brussels sprouts. Add the creamy base, and you have a dish that’s flavorful without being heavy.

2. Nutritious and Wholesome

Packed with vegetables like Brussels sprouts, onions, and potatoes, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious.

3. Easy to Make

Despite its elegant presentation, this soup comes together quickly and requires only basic ingredients.

4. Great for Leftovers

The flavors only deepen with time, making this soup even more delicious the next day.

Tips for the Best Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup

• Crisp Up the Bacon: For extra crunch, cook the bacon longer or place it on a paper towel to remove excess grease.
• Customize the Vegetables: Add carrots, leeks, or spinach to boost the nutrition and color of the soup.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Brussels sprouts and garlic elevate the soup’s flavor significantly.
• Make It Thicker: For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the potatoes before adding the Brussels sprouts.
• Add Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyere cheese makes this soup even more decadent.

FAQs About Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the bacon with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

2. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts are ideal, you can use frozen ones. Thaw and slice them thinly before adding to the soup.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the creamy texture.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but note that the texture of the potatoes may change slightly. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

5. What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

6. Can I use heavy cream instead of potatoes for creaminess?

Absolutely! Replace the potatoes with 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a different texture and flavor profile.

Why This Recipe Will Become Your Favorite

This Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup isn’t just another soup—it’s a hearty, comforting meal that you’ll crave over and over again. The richness of the bacon, the creaminess of the broth, and the nuttiness of the Brussels sprouts combine to create a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Final Thoughts: A Cozy Bowl Awaits

When you need a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, this Creamy Brussels Sprout and Bacon Soup is your answer. It’s perfect for cold nights, busy days, or even as a starter for a special dinner.

Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of rich, flavorful goodness. Don’t forget to top it with crispy bacon and serve it alongside warm bread for the ultimate dining experience!

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