Creamy comforting BLT soup

This BLT soup brings the satisfying flavors of a classic BLT sandwich into a warm creamy bowl. It’s my favorite on chilly evenings when I want something familiar but a bit different. The rich bacon and fresh lettuce flavors meld with a touch of spice and smooth creaminess to make every spoonful comforting.

I first made this soup when craving a BLT but wanting something more soothing. It quickly became a go-to whenever I need a comfort meal with a fresh twist.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: to cook bacon smoothly and add a subtle fruitiness choose extra virgin for best flavor
• Bacon: brings smoky richness and a crispy texture quality thick-cut bacon adds depth
• Small onion and green onions: layer the base flavor go for firm and fresh bulbs
• Tomato paste: delivers a concentrated tomato punch pick a brand with no added sugar for natural acidity
• Romaine lettuce: is key for familiar BLT crunch in a tender form choose firm vibrant leaves
• All-purpose flour: thickens the soup gently avoid lumps by sprinkling slowly and stirring thoroughly
• Chicken broth: gives a flavorful savory base choose low sodium to control saltiness
• Canned diced tomatoes: add juiciness and acidity better to pick ones without added herbs or salt
• Crushed red pepper: adds a subtle heat adjust to your taste but do not skip
• Half-and-half: creates creamy richness pick fresh dairy for smooth texture
• Creme fraiche or mayo: both add tang and silkiness choose creme fraiche for a slightly tangy luxurious finish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: essential for seasoning adjust during cooking
• Packaged croutons: add crunch select sturdy ones that hold up well in hot soup
• Fresh basil leaves: brighten and freshen the finished dish pick green vibrant leaves for best aroma

Instructions

Build The Base:

In a large stock pot or dutch oven heat olive oil over medium until shimmering. Add chopped bacon and cook until it starts to brown this renders fat and builds smoky flavor. Continue cooking bacon to your preferred crispiness level. Next add diced onions and chopped green onions cooking until soft and translucent this creates a sweet aromatic foundation. Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute or two to release deep tomato flavor.

Add Vegetables and Flour:

Add the chopped Romaine lettuce and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook until the lettuce brightens in color this signals it is starting to soften. Sprinkle flour evenly over the vegetables then stir thoroughly to combine. This thickens the soup gently. If the mixture feels dry or pasty add a splash of chicken broth and stir to loosen.

Simmer Soup:

Pour in the chicken broth along with crushed red pepper and a pinch of salt. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then lower heat to maintain a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes allowing flavors to blend and soup to thicken.

Temper Dairy:

In a small bowl whisk half-and-half with two tablespoons of creme fraiche until very smooth. Slowly ladle some hot soup into the dairy mixture whisking constantly to temper and avoid curdling. Then pour this mixture back into the soup pot stirring to combine fully. Turn heat to low to keep warm but do not boil after adding dairy.

Serve and Garnish:

Ladle soup into bowls. Swirl in the remaining creme fraiche for a tangy finish. Top each bowl with crushed croutons for crunch and sprinkle with slivered fresh basil leaves to brighten the flavor. Serve immediately.

I love the fresh crunch of Romaine in the soup it reminds me of summer BLTs but somehow tastes even better warm. This is the kind of recipe that brings family around the table for seconds and hearty conversation.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat stirring often to maintain creaminess and avoid separation.

Ingredient Swaps

For a vegetarian version omit bacon and substitute vegetable broth instead. Use sour cream or Greek yogurt in place of creme fraiche for tang with less richness. Gluten free flour blends work well for thickening, just use one suitable for sauces.

Serving Ideas

Pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for an easy filling meal. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness alongside the rich soup. Sprinkle extra chopped bacon or a few cherry tomatoes on top to amplify the BLT vibe.

This BLT soup is perfect for cozy nights and comforting meals with a fresh twist.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

→ What can I use instead of creme fraiche?

Mayo works well as a substitute, adding a slightly sweeter and creamy texture to the soup.

→ How do I achieve a smoother texture?

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding dairy for a velvety consistency.

→ Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, control the heat by adjusting or omitting the crushed red pepper according to your preference.

→ What is the best way to crisp the bacon?

Cook bacon slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp but not burnt.