Mashed Potato Soup

Steps

1. 1Cook bacon
2. 2Place large skillet on stovetop over medium heat. When pan is warm, add 5 slices diced bacon and cook, flipping as needed, until crisp (about 6-8 minutes).
3. 3Drain grease
4. 4Transfer cooked bacon to plate lined with paper towels and set aside. Pour bacon grease into heat-resistant bowl.
5. 5Cook onion
6. 6Return 1 tablespoon bacon grease to skillet. Add 1 cup diced onion and sauté 3 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
7. 7Add garlic
8. 8Add 4 cloves minced garlic and sauté 30 to 60 seconds until just fragrant.
9. 9Add grease
10. 10Add 3 more tablespoons bacon grease to skillet and warm until completely liquid.
11. 11Add flour
12. 12Sprinkle 3 tablespoons flour into skillet and whisk vigorously until smooth paste forms.
13. 13Cook mixture over medium heat until lightly golden (1-2 minutes), then remove from heat.
14. 14Add half-and-half
15. 15Slowly add 2 cups warmed half-and-half, whisking vigorously. Return to low heat and simmer 2 to 4 minutes, whisking constantly, until thickened.
16. 16Add potatoes
17. 17Pour in 2 cups stock and 4 cups mashed potatoes, whisking until smooth and heated through (3-4 minutes).
18. 18Add dairy
19. 19Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup sour cream, stirring until cheese melts. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
20. 20Serve
21. 21Remove from heat and stir in most of the bacon, reserving some for topping. Divide between bowls and top with reserved bacon, more cheese, and 1/3 cup sliced green onions.