Potato and Bacon Soup

### **Instructions**

1. **Cook the Bacon:**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.

2. **Sauté the Onion:**
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook in the bacon drippings until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

3. **Cook the Potatoes:**
Add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. **Make the Roux:**
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

5. **Combine and Simmer:**
Pour the milk mixture into the pot with the potatoes and broth. Stir well to combine. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to thicken and develop flavor.

6. **Blend (Optional):**
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks intact. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.

7. **Add Bacon and Serve:**
Stir in most of the cooked bacon, reserving some for garnish. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the reserved bacon, shredded cheese, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Classic Comfort:** This soup combines the hearty goodness of potatoes with the smoky, savory flavor of bacon.
– **Customizable:** Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or cream, and get creative with your toppings.
– **One-Pot Wonder:** Besides the roux, everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

### **Perfect Pairings**
Serve this potato and bacon soup with warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits for a meal that feels like a warm hug. A simple green salad on the side adds a touch of freshness.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or serving a crowd, this creamy potato and bacon soup is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let the rich, comforting flavors brighten your day!