Chilli Tomato & Bacon Soup (Paleo Style)

This is one of my go-to batch cooking recipes as it provides lots of portions of soup, perfect for taking to work. And who could resist a tomato and bacon soup? It has bacon in it, after all. Depending on what I have at home, I often use tinned tomatoes, instead of fresh. I tend to have chicken stock in the freezer, but otherwise, try it with bone broth – or even water if you have neither.

This hearty soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your meal prep routine. The combination of tomatoes, bacon, and chili provides a satisfying and warming meal that's perfect for any time of the year.

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5 from 1 vote

Recipe: Chilli, Tomato & Bacon Soup

This Chilli, Tomato & Bacon Soup is a hearty and nutritious Paleo meal. Perfect for batch cooking, it provides multiple portions that are ideal for taking to work. The combination of tomatoes, bacon, and a touch of chili creates a comforting and flavorful soup.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time20 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Soups

Cuisine: Paleo

Keyword: Batch Cooking Soup, Chilli Tomato Bacon Soup, Hearty Soup, Paleo Soup

Servings: 6

Calories: 200kcal

Cost: $15

Equipment

• Large pan
• Blender

Ingredients

• Dash of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 large brown onions finely diced
• 8 bacon slices chopped
• 15 - 20 tomatoes chopped (depending on your preference you may choose to peel and de-seed)
• 1 1/2 litres of chicken stock
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 5 tablespoons fresh basil chopped
• sea salt and black pepper

Instructions

• Heat the Oil: First, heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat and gently fry the onions and bacon.
• Add the Tomatoes and Stock: When the onions become soft, add in the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, tomato paste, chili powder, and seasoning. Stir to combine.
• Bring to a Boil: Next, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally.
• Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the tomatoes are tender.
• Blend: After about 20 minutes, remove the pan from the heat. Then, blitz the soup in a blender until your desired consistency has been reached.
• Serve: Finally, serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil, and enjoy!

Why This Tomato and Bacon Soup is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a soup that ticks all the boxes for flavour, simplicity, and convenience, this tomato and bacon soup is a clear winner. With the rich depth of slow-cooked tomatoes, the smoky saltiness of bacon, and the gentle kick of chili, it’s incredibly satisfying. What makes it even better is how well it freezes, making it ideal for meal prep or emergency meals when you just don’t feel like cooking.

Batch Cooking and Freezer-Friendly

One of the best aspects of this soup is how well it suits batch cooking. Double or triple the ingredients and you’ve got lunches sorted for the week, or a quick dinner ready to go whenever you need it. Once cooled, simply portion it into containers, label them with the date, and freeze. It reheats beautifully either on the stovetop or in the microwave, and the flavours actually deepen over time, making it even tastier a few days after it’s made.

Tips for Making the Best Tomato and Bacon Soup

• Use high-quality bacon: The bacon is the star of the show here, so don’t skimp. Look for nitrate-free, pasture-raised bacon if possible. It adds a deeper flavour and aligns with Paleo principles.
• Don’t rush the onions: Cooking your onions slowly until they’re soft and sweet adds incredible depth to the base of the soup. It’s worth taking your time on this step.
• Stock options: Chicken stock, beef stock, or bone broth all work well in this recipe. If you’re using water, consider adding extra herbs and spices to compensate for the flavour.
• Spice it up or down: If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount of chili or add a splash of hot sauce. For a milder soup, reduce or omit the chili entirely.

Customising Your Soup

This soup is wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Add vegetables: Carrots, celery, or capsicum make great additions if you want to sneak in some extra veggies. Dice them finely and add them when you’re sautéing the onions.
• Make it creamy: For a creamier version, blend the soup and stir through some coconut milk or cashew cream before serving.
• Top it off: Try garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley, a swirl of coconut cream, or even some crispy bacon crumbles.

Is Tomato and Bacon Soup Paleo-Friendly?

Yes, absolutely – with a few considerations. Be mindful of the ingredients in your bacon and tinned tomatoes, as many brands contain added sugar, preservatives, or other additives. Always opt for clean, whole food ingredients where possible. If you’re strict Paleo, choose homemade bone broth and ensure all components align with your dietary guidelines.

Serving Suggestions

While this soup is satisfying on its own, it also pairs beautifully with some Paleo-friendly sides:

• Cauliflower rice: A small scoop stirred into the soup adds texture and extra nutrition.
• Paleo bread or crackers: Ideal for dipping and soaking up the rich tomato broth.
• A simple green salad: Fresh greens tossed with olive oil and lemon juice make a perfect, crisp contrast to the warm soup.

Using Leftovers Creatively

If you find yourself with extra soup and want to mix things up, here are a few creative ideas:

• Tomato and bacon shakshuka: Simmer the soup in a frying pan and crack a couple of eggs into it. Cover and cook until the eggs are just set. Serve with avocado on the side.
• Sauce for zucchini noodles: Blend the soup until smooth and serve it over spiralised zucchini or roasted vegetables.
• Soup-stuffed sweet potatoes: Pour hot soup over baked sweet potatoes and top with a dollop of coconut yoghurt and herbs.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions. To reheat, use a saucepan on medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Perfect for Work Lunches

This soup is a lunchtime hero. Pop a portion into a thermos and it’ll still be hot by the time you’re ready to eat. It’s warming, nourishing, and far more appealing than the usual takeaway options. Plus, the bacon makes it feel indulgent – without compromising on health.

Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients

Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which is associated with reduced risk of heart disease and some cancers. They’re also a great source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K.

Bacon, when sourced properly, can be a good protein source. It also provides B vitamins and selenium. Moderation is key, and it’s best enjoyed as a flavour enhancer, as in this recipe.

Chili offers a metabolism boost and may help support weight management thanks to capsaicin, the compound that gives it heat. It’s also rich in vitamin C and beta carotene.

Chicken stock or bone broth provides minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It’s hydrating and supports gut health, especially when made from scratch.

Make It Your New Favourite

This tomato and bacon soup is the kind of recipe that becomes a household staple. It’s comforting, quick to make, and endlessly adaptable. Once you’ve made it a few times, you’ll be able to whip it up from memory with whatever ingredients you’ve got on hand. It’s Paleo-friendly, budget-friendly, and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Final Thoughts

There’s something timeless about a good bowl of soup, and this one has all the makings of a classic. Whether you’re looking for a reliable lunch to take to work, a starter for a dinner party, or just something nourishing to curl up with on a cool evening, this tomato and bacon soup delivers. Try it with your own twists and see just how versatile it can be.