The first time I created this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup, it was purely by accident. A crisp autumn evening, a fridge full of sweet potatoes, and a craving for something truly comforting led me to experiment. I had some smoky beef bacon on hand and a bottle of pure maple syrup, and the idea of combining those bold flavors with the natural sweetness of potatoes sparked an instant culinary adventure.

The kitchen filled with an intoxicating aroma – sweet, savory, and just a hint of spice. This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup quickly became a family legend, requested at every gathering. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a warm, inviting hug in a bowl, a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. I’m absolutely thrilled to share my secret for the most unforgettable Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup with you today.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

This isn’t just any sweet potato soup; this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup offers an unparalleled symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Imagine the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes perfectly balanced by the smoky, crispy bits of beef bacon, all uplifted by a subtle hint of pure maple syrup. This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is incredibly creamy, wonderfully comforting, and surprisingly easy to make.

It transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience. You’ll love its vibrant color, its rich texture, and the way it makes your home smell absolutely divine. It’s the perfect bowl for a chilly evening, a heartwarming meal for family and friends, or even a sophisticated starter for a special dinner.

Preparing this amazing sweet potato soup with bacon and maple is a joy, and savoring every spoonful is pure bliss. This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup truly brings comfort to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this delightful Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is the first step to culinary bliss. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible depth of flavor that makes this bacon sweet potato soup so special.

6 slices beef bacon, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4-5 medium sweet potatoes)
6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Amber Rich is ideal)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor)
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Extra crispy beef bacon bits and a drizzle of maple syrup for garnish

Substitutions & Variations

One of the beauties of this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your pantry or dietary preferences without compromising on its deliciousness. Experimentation is always encouraged!

For the Bacon: If you prefer a vegetarian version of this maple sweet potato soup, simply omit the beef bacon and sauté the onion and garlic in butter or extra olive oil. For a smoky flavor, you can add an extra pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
Dairy-Free Option: To make this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup dairy-free, simply use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a lovely richness and a subtle tropical note that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Spice Profile: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A touch of cayenne pepper can add a lovely kick to your sweet potato soup with bacon and maple. For a warmer, more aromatic profile, a pinch of allspice or cardamom would also work well.
Broth Alternatives: While vegetable broth is recommended, you can use chicken broth if you prefer. Just be mindful of the sodium content.
Added Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding a chopped carrot or a stalk of celery along with the onion at the beginning.
Sweetness Level: If you like your sweet potato soup a little sweeter, you can always add an extra tablespoon or two of maple syrup at the end, to taste. Conversely, if you prefer less sweetness, start with 1/4 cup and add more only if desired. This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is truly customizable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this rich and flavorful Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is a straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl ready in no time. This recipe for Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is designed for simplicity and maximum flavor.

Cook the Beef Bacon: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the diced beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked bacon bits and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot; drain any excess. These crispy bacon bits are essential for garnishing your finished sweet potato soup with bacon and maple.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the olive oil to the pot with the remaining bacon fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add Sweet Potatoes and Spices: Stir in the peeled and diced sweet potatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly coat the sweet potatoes in the spices and aromatics. This step truly deepens the flavor of the Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and pure maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Blend Until Smooth: Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids; ensure the lid is properly vented if using a traditional blender. Return the blended soup to the pot if you used a traditional blender. The velvety texture of this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is key.
Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk). Heat gently for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the soup is warmed through. Do not boil once the cream is added. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed – you might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch more maple syrup to perfect your Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup.
Serve: Ladle the warm Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup into bowls. Garnish generously with the reserved crispy beef bacon bits, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, and an optional extra drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy this comforting sweet potato soup with bacon and maple immediately!

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving restaurant-quality Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup at home is easier than you think with a few expert tricks. These tips will ensure your bacon sweet potato soup is absolutely perfect every time.

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes. Varieties like Jewel or Garnet are excellent for soup due to their creamy texture and vibrant orange color, which truly makes this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup shine.
Don’t Skimp on the Bacon Fat: Leaving a tablespoon or two of bacon fat in the pot after cooking the beef bacon adds an incredible depth of smoky flavor to the base of your Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup. It’s a flavor booster you won’t want to skip!
Proper Blending Technique: For the smoothest possible soup, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a standard blender, work in small batches, filling the blender no more than halfway. Remove the center cap of the lid and cover with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup. This ensures a silky texture for your sweet potato soup with bacon and maple.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup before serving. Flavors can mellow during cooking, so don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a touch more maple syrup or spices to achieve your perfect balance.
Garnish Generously: The crispy bacon bits, fresh herbs, and a final drizzle of maple syrup aren’t just for looks. They add textural contrast and enhance the overall flavor profile of this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup. Don’t skip these finishing touches!
Make Ahead: This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Achieving restaurant-quality Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup at home is easier than you think with a few expert tricks. After perfecting your soup, enhance your meal by serving it alongside Crispy Bang Bang Chicken for a delightful flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is just as delicious as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week. Proper storage ensures its wonderful flavor and texture remain intact.

Storage: Allow the Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this sweet potato soup with bacon and maple also freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating on the Stovetop: For best results, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth, water, or even a little extra cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Reheating in the Microwave: For individual portions of your Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup, microwave on medium power, stirring every minute or so, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can sometimes affect the creaminess.
Garnish Fresh: If you’re reheating, always add fresh crispy beef bacon bits, herbs, and a fresh drizzle of maple syrup just before serving. The original garnishes won’t hold up as well during storage or reheating, but the soup itself will be perfectly delicious.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This rich and satisfying Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate it into a complete and truly memorable meal. Here are some fantastic ideas to serve alongside your bacon sweet potato soup:

Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: A warm, crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up every last drop of this delicious Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing with any soup, a grilled cheese sandwich made with a sharp cheddar or Gruyère would be phenomenal with this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup.
Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a lovely contrast to the creamy richness of the sweet potato soup with bacon and maple.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of simply roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts can add more texture and nutrients to your meal.
Quinoa or Rice: For a more substantial meal, a small scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice added directly to the soup bowl can make this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup even more filling.
Cornbread: The slightly sweet and savory notes of cornbread would perfectly complement the flavors in this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup.

This rich and satisfying Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate it into a complete and truly memorable meal. For instance, consider serving it with Creamy White Chicken Chili to create a comforting feast.

FAQs

Can I make this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, absolutely! To make this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup in a slow cooker, cook the beef bacon separately and set aside. Sauté the onion and garlic in a pan.

Then, combine the sautéed onion and garlic, diced sweet potatoes, broth, maple syrup, and spices in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sweet potatoes are very tender. Blend until smooth, then stir in the heavy cream. Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon bits when serving this slow-cooked sweet potato soup with bacon and maple.

Is this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup spicy?

No, this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is not inherently spicy. The smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky depth rather than heat. The ginger and cinnamon provide a comforting aromatic quality. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can certainly add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to your individual serving of bacon sweet potato soup.

Can I use frozen sweet potatoes?

While fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for the best flavor and texture in this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup, you can use frozen diced sweet potatoes in a pinch. You won’t need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the pot with the broth. Cooking time might be slightly shorter. Just ensure they are fork-tender before blending for a smooth sweet potato soup with bacon and maple.

What kind of maple syrup should I use?

For the best flavor in your Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup, I highly recommend using pure maple syrup, preferably Grade A Amber Rich or Dark Robust. Avoid “pancake syrup” or “maple-flavored syrup,” as these are often high-fructose corn syrup with artificial flavorings and will not provide the natural, deep maple taste essential for this sweet potato soup with bacon and maple. The quality of your maple syrup truly shines in this recipe.

Can I make this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup vegetarian?

Yes, absolutely! To make a delicious vegetarian version of this Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup, simply omit the beef bacon entirely. Sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil or butter.

For a similar smoky depth, you can increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a touch of liquid smoke. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring a wonderfully flavorful maple sweet potato soup without meat.

Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup is a flavorful dish that combines sweet potatoes with the savory notes of bacon and the richness of maple syrup. This fusion creates both a comforting and indulgent meal that showcases the beautiful balance of sweet and savory in cooking, often enjoyed during colder seasons in many cuisines.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that this is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup and will vary based on specific brands and exact measurements used. This estimate is for approximately 1/6th of the recipe.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380-420 kcal
Total Fat	18-22 g
Saturated Fat	10-12 g
Cholesterol	55-65 mg
Sodium	650-750 mg
Total Carbohydrates	50-55 g
Dietary Fiber	6-8 g
Total Sugars	25-30 g
Protein	8-10 g

Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 50 mins
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Maple Bacon Sweet Potato Soup offers an unparalleled symphony of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. Imagine the earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes perfectly balanced by the smoky, crispy bits of beef bacon, all uplifted by a subtle hint of pure maple syrup. It is incredibly creamy, wonderfully comforting, and surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale

6 slices Beef Bacon, diced
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
4 pounds Sweet Potatoes, peeled and diced
6 cups Vegetable Broth
1/2 cup Pure Maple Syrup
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamo
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon Ground Ginger
1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1 teaspoon Salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, or to taste
1/2 cup Heavy Cream
Fresh Parsley or Chives, chopped, for garnish
Extra crispy beef bacon bits and a drizzle of maple syrup for garnish

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Instructions

In a large Dutch oven, cook diced beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside
Add olive oil and bacon fat to the pot, sauté chopped onion until softened, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant
Stir in sweet potatoes, spices, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes
Add vegetable broth and maple syrup. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender
Blend soup until smooth and creamy. Stir in heavy cream and warm gently
Serve soup in bowls garnished with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of maple syrup

Notes

For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.

For a vegetarian option, omit bacon and sauté onions in olive oil instead.

Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 400 kcal
Sugar: 25 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 11 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 7 g
Protein: 9 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg