We used 1/8 tsp cayenne and 1/4 tsp smoked chipotle powder; also used half & half instead of heavy cream; also used a full pack of bacon & drained the grease out. Would make again.
Love this recipe. we made our own beef broth (with a little carrot and thyme in the broth) which really enhanced the flavor. The only downside is that this doesn't make a ton of soup so minimal leftovers.