Loaded Baked Potato Soup

 This is one of my family's favorite soup recipes.  We absolutely love it!  It is easy to make and it's perfect to eat with some freshly baked rolls. 

INGREDIENTS:
1 lb bacon, chopped and cooked
1 onion, diced
3-4 carrots, peeled and diced
5 stalks of celery, finely diced (about a cup)
8 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 c flour
2-3 (14.5oz) cans chicken broth
salt
pepper
4 c heavy cream or half & half

In a large soup pot, sautee onion, carrots and celery in about a tablespoon and a half of olive oil (you can also use the drippings from the cooked bacon).  When onions are translucent, add potatoes and cook for about 4 minutes.

Add flour and mix well to try and coat your veggies.  Add chicken broth and water if needed.  Add half (or all) the bacon, and salt and pepper.

On medium heat bring soup to a simmer and cook for about 25 minutes or until potatoes are soft.  At this point you can mash some of the potatoes for a creamier texture.  Add the heavy whipping cream (or half & half) and simmer for another 5 minutes.  You can add more salt or pepper if it's needed.

Serve and garnish your soup with green onions, cheddar cheese, and bacon.  Enjoy!