Jamie Oliver Potato Leek Bacon Soup Recipe

This potato leek bacon soup from Jamie Oliver is the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into an edible work of art!

What sticks out for me is how the smoky bacon pairs beautifully with the mellow sweetness of the leeks. It’s an unbeatable combo, ya’ll!

One thing I’ve learned is to cook the leeks low and slow until they’re meltingly soft. 

The potatoes are what gives the soup its body, and I like to dice them small so they cook evenly and quickly.

When slicing the leeks, be sure to always rinse them well under cold water to get rid of any hidden grit.

Don’t skip the bacon garnish at the end!

How to Make Jamie Oliver Potato Leek Bacon Soup

Ingredients

• 4 slices Bacon
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 Leeks
• 2 Garlic Cloves
• 4 Potatoes
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Cream
• Salt and Pepper
• 1/2 cup Peas
• 1/4 cup Parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot until crispy.

Remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2:

Add olive oil to the pot.

Sauté diced leeks and minced garlic in the bacon fat until soft.

Step 3:

Peel and dice the potatoes and add them to the pot.

Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4:

Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat.

Cook until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5:

Stir in the cream and peas, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Garnish with chopped parsley and the crispy bacon before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Bacon

Use thick-cut bacon for more flavor, as it adds a nice contrasting texture to the soup.

If you prefer a leaner option, choose turkey bacon, yet keep in mind flavor variations.

Balancing Creaminess

For a healthier option, you can replace cream with half-and-half or even evaporated milk.

This will slightly change the texture, but it remains deliciously creamy.

Pea Placement

Adding frozen peas at the end maintains their bright color and soft texture.

This adds an appealing visual element to your dish.

Potato Type Matters

Use Russet potatoes for a more starchy and creamy texture; Yukon Golds work well, too.

This choice affects the final consistency, so pick based on your preference.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover soup in the fridge, where it lasts up to three days.

You can also freeze it, but it’s best without the cream to prevent graininess.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Potato Leek Bacon Soup

Crusty Bread

A warm, crusty bread is a classic choice with any soup, and it’s perfect with potato leek bacon soup.

You can try a simple baguette or a sourdough loaf for a lovely contrast in texture.

Tearing off pieces to dip into the creamy soup adds a satisfying experience to your meal.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.

The crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and creamy dressing work so nicely here.

It’s a classic combination that keeps the meal light and tasty.

Bruschetta

For something a bit different, try serving bruschetta with your soup.

The crunchy bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil adds a wonderful burst of flavor.

It’s an unexpected yet delicious pairing that works beautifully.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms can offer a unique addition alongside your dinner.

They bring a savory element with their filling and are typically seasoned with herbs and garlic.

It’s a fun way to add more variety and depth to your table.

Apple Walnut Salad

Try serving an apple walnut salad to bring a sweet and nutty element to the meal.

The apples and walnuts create a pleasing texture contrast with the creamy soup.

This side dish is refreshing, providing a balanced complement to the flavor of the soup.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding More Vegetables

You can definitely experiment by adding more vegetables to this soup.

Consider adding some chopped carrots or peas to the mix for extra flavor and texture.

They bring a nice sweetness and additional nutrients to the dish.

Vegetarian Option

If you’re skipping the bacon to make this vegetarian, don’t worry!

You can sauté the leeks and garlic in olive oil or butter for flavor.

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a tasty alternative.

Different Spices

Why not spice things up a bit?

Try adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Thyme or rosemary can bring in a wonderful aromatic quality if you prefer herbs.

Adjusting to your taste can keep the dish exciting every time you make it.

How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Potato Leek Bacon Soup Recipe

Storing leftover soup can help you enjoy it later without losing flavor.

Always let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.

Airtight Containers

Use airtight containers to keep your soup fresh.

Make sure the lids seal properly to prevent any odors from seeping in or out.

Refrigeration

Refrigerate the soup within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

You can safely store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is the best option.

Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

Don’t forget to label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting to Blend

You don’t want chunks in your soup unless you’re a fan of that texture.

Blending helps achieve that smooth, creamy consistency that potato leek bacon soup is known for!

Skipping the Bacon

The bacon’s flavor is crucial to this soup and adds an irresistible smokiness.

Make sure the bacon is crispy to introduce a delicious crunch to each bite.

Overcooking the Potatoes

Overcooked potatoes can become mushy, affecting the soup’s texture negatively.

Aim for them to be just tender before blending or mashing to maintain a pleasant consistency.