3545. BACON and BAKED POTATO SOUP

makes 6 servings (about 1 cup each)


2 6-8 oz. baking potatoes
3 tablespoons butter 
1/2 cup chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped celery3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed1/4 teaspoon salt1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 

4 cups half-and-half, light cream or milk1 1/4 cups shredded American cheese (5 ounces)1 cup chicken broth 

8 slices bacon, crisp-cooked, drained and crumbled2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion1/4 cup dairy sour cream 

 

Scrub potatoes with a vegetable brush; pat dry. Prick potatoes with a fork. Bake in a 425 degree F oven for 40 to 60 minutes or until tender; cool. Peel potatoes, if desired. Chop potatoes; set aside. 

 

In a heavy large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Stir in flour, thyme, salt and pepper. Add half-and-half or milk all at once. Cook and stir for 5 to 6 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Add potatoes, 1 cup of the cheese, and the broth; stir until cheese melts. Slightly mash potatoes with the back of a spoon or a potato masher. 

 

For the topping, reserve 2 tablespoons of the bacon. Stir the remaining bacon and 1 tablespoon of the green onion into soup. Heat through. 

 

To serve, top each serving with reserved bacon, remaining 1/4 cup cheese, green onions and the sour cream.

 

 

bacon recipe source: Midwest Living (@MidwestLiving)