One chilly afternoon, as I flipped through my old recipe journal, I stumbled upon a gem that instantly transported me back to my grandmother’s kitchen—Creamy BLT Soup. This delightful dish captures the heartwarming flavors of the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich, but in a creamy, comforting bowl that’s ideal for any meal. Not only is this soup a hug in a bowl, but it also comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy lunch breaks or cozy dinner nights. With warm, savory bacon and fresh Romaine lettuce mingling with rich tomatoes, this hearty soup is sure to fill you up and lift your spirits. Ready to bring a little nostalgia to your table? Let’s dive into making this delicious BLT Soup! Why is this BLT Soup a must-try? Comforting Warmth: This BLT Soup serves as the perfect antidote to chilly days, capturing all the flavors of your favorite sandwich in a cozy bowl. Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s a time-saving delight for busy chefs and families looking for hearty meals. Adaptable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment! Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter version or coconut milk for a dairy-free option—get creative! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a warm, creamy soup! Serve it with a side of Red Pepper Soup for a complete meal that satisfies all palates. Hearty Satisfaction: Bursting with rich, savory goodness, this recipe is ideal for anyone seeking comfort food that truly fills you up! BLT Soup Ingredients • • Discover the magic of flavors! For the Base Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing and adds healthy fats. Substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option. Bacon – Provides the deliciously savory, smoky flavor that defines this BLT Soup. Use regular-cut bacon for best results. Onion (small, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth; be sure to sauté until translucent for optimal flavor. Green Onions (chopped) – Offers a fresh, mild aroma that brightens the soup. Canned Diced Tomatoes (14 ounces) – Introduces body and tang; use whole tomatoes for a chunkier texture. Tomato Paste – Intensifies the rich tomato flavor in the soup. Crushed Red Pepper (dash) – Adds a hint of heat; optional based on your spice preference. For the Soup’s Creaminess All-Purpose Flour – For thickening the soup’s base. Substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option. Chicken Broth (4 cups) – Provides the soup’s depth; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative. Half-and-Half (1 cup) – This adds rich creaminess; you may use whole milk or cream for an even richer taste. Creme Fraiche or Mayo (3-4 tablespoons) – Enhances the creamy texture; mayo also imparts a touch of sweetness. For the Final Touch Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste. Romaine Lettuce (cored and chopped) – Adds freshness and a unique twist; iceberg or spinach can work as substitutes. Packaged Croutons (1/2 cup, slightly crushed) – For a delightful garnish and added texture. Fresh Basil Leaves (slivered, optional) – A fragrant garnish that elevates the flavor with fresh notes. Now, let’s create some comforting, warm memories with this hearty BLT Soup! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Soup Step 1: Heat the Oil In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. This will provide the perfect base for your comforting BLT Soup. Keep an eye on the oil; once it’s hot, you’re ready to add the bacon for that savory flavor. Step 2: Cook the Bacon Add the chopped bacon to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to render the fat, which will create a rich flavor for your soup. The delightful smell of sizzling bacon marks the success of this step! Step 3: Sauté the Onions Once the bacon is crisp, stir in the diced onion and green onions. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent, allowing their natural sugars to caramelize. This mixture will deepen the overall flavor of your BLT Soup and make your kitchen smell amazing! Step 4: Add Tomato Paste Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly and begins to caramelize. This will intensify the tomato flavor in your BLT Soup, creating a luscious, umami depth that perfectly complements the bacon and onions. Step 5: Incorporate Lettuce and Tomatoes Add the chopped Romaine lettuce and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the lettuce is bright green and slightly wilted. The vibrant colors and aromas of this mixture will provide a fresh balance to the rich flavors of the soup. Step 6: Thicken with Flour Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine. This will help thicken your BLT Soup beautifully. If the mixture seems too dry, you can splash in a little chicken broth to help it incorporate smoothly. Step 7: Pour in the Broth Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, adding a dash of crushed red pepper and seasoning with salt to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This simmering process allows all the flavors to meld, creating a hearty and comforting dish. Step 8: Mix in Half-and-Half In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of half-and-half and 2 tablespoons of creme fraiche. To temper, add a ladleful of hot soup to the mixture, then stir it back into the pot. This step will ensure your BLT Soup is creamy and velvety, offering a delightful texture. Step 9: Serve and Garnish Ladle your creamy BLT Soup into bowls and garnish with additional dollops of creme fraiche, a sprinkle of crunchy croutons, and some slivered fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting soup, which brilliantly replicates the classic BLT experience in a warm, cozy bowl. What to Serve with BLT Soup There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to accompany your cozy meals; let’s elevate your dining experience! Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This classic pairing brings nostalgia and comfort, with gooey melted cheese complementing the creamy soup perfectly. It’s like a hug on a plate! Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing add a refreshing crunch. The lightness of the salad balances the rich, hearty flavors of the soup. Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm, buttery breadsticks alongside your soup for a delightful contrast in texture. The soft, chewy bites pair well with the creamy broth. Potato Chips: For a crunchy contrast, offer a side of salty, crisp chips. Their crunchiness and flavor elevate each spoonful of warm soup. Roasted Vegetable Platter: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized can bring a touch of sweetness and healthy fiber, providing an earthy element that complements the soup. Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage choice, these drinks add a tangy note that cuts through the creaminess. The coolness contrasts the warmth of the soup beautifully. Make Ahead Options These deliciously creamy BLT Soup bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base of the soup—cooking the bacon, onions, and adding tomato paste—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store this mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just reheat the base gently, stir in the broth, and finish by adding the fresh ingredients like Romaine lettuce and half-and-half. For optimal quality, it’s best to refrigerate it rather than freeze, as the creamy texture is just as delightful when made fresh. This way, you’ll have comforting, homemade soup any busy night with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze BLT Soup Fridge: Store your BLT Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, avoiding boiling to maintain the creamy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without dairy components for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add cream upon reheating. Reheating: Avoid microwaving as it may cause the dairy to break. Instead, reheat on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for a smooth consistency. Serving: Always garnish your reheated soup with fresh basil and croutons for the best dining experience! Expert Tips for BLT Soup Choose the Right Bacon: Use regular cut bacon instead of thick-cut, which might take longer to cook and can affect texture. Adjust for Freezing: If planning to freeze, make the soup without dairy for better texture upon reheating. Add creaminess after thawing. Gentle Reheating: Avoid microwaving the soup to prevent the dairy from breaking; reheat gently on a stovetop over low heat instead. Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or your favorite hot sauce! Fresh Greens: Add the Romaine lettuce towards the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and fresh taste in your comforting BLT Soup. BLT Soup: Creative Variations Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions to make this BLT Soup your own! Turkey Bacon: Swap out traditional bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier version that still packs a punch of flavor. Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of half-and-half for a creamy, dairy-free soup that adds a hint of tropical richness. Gluten-Free Flour: To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty dish. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for those who like to turn up the heat—this will awaken your taste buds! Veggie Boost: Toss in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini during cooking to add extra nutrients and flavor to your comforting soup. Creamy Avocado: For an interesting twist, blend in some mashed avocado right before serving for an ultra-creamy texture and healthy fats. Sweet Corn: Stir in some sweet corn for a pop of sweetness and color that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the soup. Cheesy Finish: Top the bowl with shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a melty finish that turns your whole soup experience into a cozy indulgence. No matter how you choose to mix it up, remember that recipes are all about creating joy in your kitchen. Consider serving your soup with a side of Red Pepper Soup for an enticing flavor journey that will bring smiles around your table! BLT Soup Recipe FAQs What type of bacon is best to use for this BLT Soup? Absolutely! I recommend using regular cut bacon for the best results. It cooks evenly and renders fat quickly, enhancing the savory depth of your soup. Thick-cut bacon can take longer to crisp up, which might lead to uneven textures. How do I store leftover BLT Soup? Very easy! Just transfer the soup into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat it on the stovetop, avoiding boiling to preserve that creamy texture! Can I freeze BLT Soup? Yes, you can! For the best results, freeze the soup without the dairy components (like half-and-half or creme fraiche) to maintain its buttery texture after thawing. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and stir in your cream prior to reheating. What if my BLT Soup is too thick? No worries! If your soup comes out thicker than you like, simply add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually while heating, and you’ll be back to that lovely creamy texture in no time! How can I make this soup healthier or accommodate dietary restrictions? Absolutely, there are several options! For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. To make it dairy-free, substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk. If you’re gluten-free, just replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend! Is this BLT Soup safe for my pets? While the ingredients in this soup like bacon and vegetables are generally safe, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Onions, which are included in the recipe, can be toxic to dogs and cats in larger amounts. Always make food decisions based on your pet’s dietary needs! Hearty BLT Soup – Your New Favorite Comfort Food This BLT Soup captures the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in a creamy soup, perfect for a comforting meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.8 slices Bacon Use regular-cut bacon for best results.1 small Onion Diced, sauté until translucent.4 stalks Green Onions Chopped.14 ounces Canned Diced Tomatoes Use whole tomatoes for chunkier texture.2 tablespoons Tomato Paste1 dash Crushed Red Pepper Optional.For the Soup's Creaminess2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour Substitute with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.1 cup Half-and-Half Substitute with whole milk or cream for richer taste.3-4 tablespoons Creme Fraiche or Mayo Enhances creamy texture.For the Final Touchto taste Salt Essential for seasoning.to taste Freshly Ground Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.1 head Romaine Lettuce Cored and chopped.1/2 cup Packaged Croutons Slightly crushed.to taste Fresh Basil Leaves Slivered, optional garnish. Equipment large stock pot or Dutch oven Method Cooking StepsIn a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.Add the chopped bacon to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy.Once the bacon is crisp, stir in the diced onion and green onions. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly and begins to caramelize.Add the chopped Romaine lettuce and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the lettuce is bright green and slightly wilted.Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine.Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, adding a dash of crushed red pepper and seasoning with salt to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil and simmer for 15 minutes.In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of half-and-half and 2 tablespoons of creme fraiche. Then stir it back into the pot.Ladle your creamy BLT Soup into bowls and garnish with additional dollops of creme fraiche, a sprinkle of crunchy croutons, and slivered fresh basil leaves. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 10mg NotesUse regular cut bacon instead of thick-cut for better texture. If planning to freeze, make the soup without dairy for better texture upon reheating. Avoid microwaving the soup to prevent dairy from breaking; reheat gently on the stovetop instead. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
