There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it brings the beloved flavors of a classic BLT to the table. Picture this: crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes melding together in a smooth, creamy broth that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. I discovered this Creamy BLT Soup on a chilly evening, and it quickly became a go-to dish when I’m craving both simplicity and rich flavors. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, this delightful soup transforms the nostalgic tastes of a sandwich into a creamy, filling meal. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to indulge without the fuss of complicated recipes. So grab your pot, and let’s whip up a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next lunch or dinner!
Why is BLT Soup so irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: This creamy BLT Soup wraps you in cozy joy, making it an ideal comfort food for chilly days.
Crispy Bacon Goodness: With savory, crispy bacon as the star, every spoonful offers that beloved BLT flavor we all know and love.
Quick & Easy: You’ll love how simple it is to make; it comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for any busy night!
Nostalgic Flavor: It beautifully captures the essence of a classic BLT sandwich, delivering both nostalgia and comfort in each bite.
Family-Friendly Appeal: This soup is a hit for everyone, ensuring even picky eaters won’t be able to resist its rich, hearty goodness.
For more delightful comfort food inspiration, check out my Cozy Soups Collection.
BLT Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing ingredients. Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
• Uncooked Bacon (4 slices) – Provides the signature smoky flavor. Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Small Onion (1, diced) – Contributes a sweet flavor base. Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
• Green Onions (2, chopped) – Adds freshness and a slight crunch. Can replace with chives.
• Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon) – Intensifies the tomato flavor in the soup. Swap for fresh diced tomatoes for a lighter consistency.
• Romaine Lettuce (1 head, chopped) – Adds the fresh, crisp element of the classic sandwich. Iceberg lettuce is an alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup) – Thickens the soup to give it a creamy texture. Use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Forms the soup’s base; enhances flavor. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (14 ounces) – Provides acidity and sweetness; fresh tomatoes can be substituted if preferred.
• Crushed Red Pepper (1 dash) – Adds a hint of heat. Omit for a milder soup.
For Creaminess
• Half-and-Half (1 cup) – Creates creaminess; use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Creme Fraiche or Mayo (3-4 tablespoons) – Brings creaminess and tang; substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
For Seasoning
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances flavors; adjust to taste.
For Garnish
• Packaged Croutons (1/2 cup, crushed) – Provides a crunchy garnish; use homemade croutons for freshness.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (1 tablespoon, slivered, optional) – Adds aromatic greenery and freshness; parsley can be used instead.
This BLT Soup is sure to be a comforting bowl of flavor that warms the heart!
How to Make BLT Soup
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Sauté Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and sauté until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This creates a delicious base for your soup!
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Cook Onions: Add diced onions and green onions to the pot, cooking until they are soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor.
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Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it heat for 1-2 minutes. This step intensifies the rich tomato flavor that complements the bacon beautifully.
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Mix in Lettuce and Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped romaine lettuce and canned diced tomatoes. Cook until the lettuce is bright green, about 2-3 minutes, creating that classic BLT freshness.
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Thicken the Soup: Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine. If it seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and creamy.
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Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add the chicken broth, crushed red pepper, and salt to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Create Creaminess: In a small bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and 2 tablespoons of creme fraiche. Temper this mixture with a ladle of hot soup, then stir it back into the pot for a creamy texture.
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Serve it Up: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzling with the remaining creme fraiche and topping with crushed croutons and slivers of fresh basil for a delightful finish.
Optional: Garnish your soup with additional crispy bacon bits for an extra flavor punch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These BLT Soup make ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can sauté the bacon and cook the onions up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool the mixture and refrigerate it in an airtight container. The soup base (without dairy) can be made up to 3 days ahead; just reheat gently, then whisk in the half-and-half and creme fraiche before serving to maintain creaminess. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, do so after cooking the base; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then add the dairy just before enjoying your comforting bowl of BLT Soup!
What to Serve with BLT Soup?
There’s nothing quite like a rich, satisfying bowl of soup paired with the perfect sides to elevate your meal experience.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing; the melty cheese and crispy bread complement the soup’s creaminess beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and fresh parmesan in a tangy dressing add a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
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Garlic Bread: This hearty, buttery treat enhances the comforting elements of the soup, making every bite more delightful.
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Roasted Vegetables: The savory, caramelized flavors from roasted veggies bring added texture and nutrition, balancing the richness of the soup.
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Pickle Spear: A crunchy, tart pickle adds a zesty pop of flavor that cuts through the creaminess, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Apple Pie A La Mode: End your meal on a sweet note with warm apple pie and vanilla ice cream for a comforting finish to this hearty soup.
BLT Soup Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your soup experience with exciting twists that can elevate your homemade BLT Soup!
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon entirely and use vegetable broth to keep it plant-based and delicious.
- Creamy Delight: For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half with heavy cream.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to bring a warming heat to your soup.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in corn or diced bell peppers for a vibrant crunch and added nutrition.
- Cheesy Richness: Stir in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese to melt beautifully into the creamy broth.
- Crunchy Topping: Instead of croutons, try adding crispy fried onions for an unexpected texture that delights.
- Savory Swap: Use pancetta or prosciutto in place of bacon for a unique, gourmet flair that still maintains that classic taste.
How to Store and Freeze BLT Soup
Fridge: Keep any leftover BLT Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down before storing for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without any dairy ingredients. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid separation.
Storage Tip: If you anticipate having leftovers, consider preparing the base of the BLT Soup first and adding the creamy elements just before serving.
Expert Tips for BLT Soup
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Choose the Right Bacon: Use regular cut bacon over thick cut to ensure that it renders properly, providing the best flavor without excess fat.
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Adjust Flour Wisely: If you’re concerned about thickness, feel free to reduce the amount of flour. A little can go a long way in achieving that creamy BLT Soup texture.
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Serve Fresh for Best Flavor: This soup is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. If preparing ahead, freeze the base without dairy to maintain the flavor and texture.
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Reheat Carefully: If reheating frozen soup that contains dairy, do so slowly on low heat to prevent separation of ingredients.
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Elevate with Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil leaves add aromatic freshness. Feel free to use parsley or cilantro as alternatives for a twist in flavor!
BLT Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for BLT Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using regular cut bacon rather than thick cut. Regular cut renders its fat more effectively, providing that signature smoky flavor without excess grease, which is essential for a creamy soup base.
How can I store leftover BLT Soup?
You can keep any leftover BLT Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to allow it to cool down before storing to help maintain its flavor and texture.
Can I freeze BLT Soup?
Indeed! For freezing, prepare the soup base without the dairy ingredients to prevent separation. Portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers; it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your BLT Soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth, a splash at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Are there any dietary considerations for BLT Soup?
Yes, you can modify the recipe based on dietary needs! For a lighter version, use turkey bacon; for a vegetarian option, skip the bacon entirely and utilize vegetable broth. Additionally, coconut milk can be a great dairy-free alternative to half-and-half, while Greek yogurt offers a healthy twist on the creaminess.
Hearty BLT Soup: Creamy Comfort for Bacon Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and sauté until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onions and green onions to the pot, cooking until they are soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate the chopped romaine lettuce and canned diced tomatoes, cooking until the lettuce is bright green, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Add the chicken broth, crushed red pepper, and salt to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the half-and-half and 2 tablespoons of creme fraiche. Temper this mixture with a ladle of hot soup, then stir it back into the pot.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzling with the remaining creme fraiche and topping with crushed croutons and slivers of fresh basil.