Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup
When the wind howls and comfort is the only thing that will do, Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is your warm, inviting answer. This rustic recipe brings together crispy bacon, buttery potatoes, and tender cabbage in a creamy broth — humble ingredients that transform into a deeply satisfying soup with old-world charm.
It’s one of those one-pot wonders you’ll make again and again, and it only gets better with time.
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe
- 🥓 Crispy bacon adds smoky depth
- 🥬 Cabbage becomes tender and slightly sweet
- 🥔 Potatoes add heartiness and body to the broth
- 🥣 Comes together in just over 30 minutes
- 🧄 Perfectly complements dishes like Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo or Easy Turkey Wings
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large head cabbage, chopped
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
🔪 Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot with the rendered bacon fat, add chopped cabbage and cubed potatoes. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
3. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Finish and Serve
Return the crispy bacon to the pot. Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve piping hot.
🪄 Tips & Variations
- Make it creamier: Replace half the milk with heavy cream or stir in a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- Add aromatics: A diced onion or a clove of garlic sautéed with the veggies brings a richer base.
- Herb it up: A sprinkle of thyme or chopped fresh parsley at the end adds freshness.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth — add smoked paprika for a hint of that savory depth.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your bowl of Irish comfort with:
- Easy Turkey Wings for an indulgent main course combo
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage as a zesty, Southern-style side
- Instant Pot Lasagna for a weeknight feast with minimal effort
- Big Family Banana Pudding to wrap it all up on a sweet, nostalgic note
🧊 Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months — just note the cabbage texture may soften slightly upon reheating.
- Reheat: Gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
🥄 More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- These Easy Turkey Wings
- Instant Pot Lasagna
- Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage
- Big Family Banana Pudding
✨ Final Thoughts
Simple, savory, and soul-warming, this Irish Bacon, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is proof that a handful of humble ingredients can create something truly magical. Whether you’re craving comfort or cooking for a crowd, this rustic soup delivers on every front.
If you make it, tag us at @Chefmaniac — we’d love to see how you serve it!
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