A great-tasting comfort food for a chilly day!

Crock Pot Loaded-Potato Soup

Ingredients

5 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
5 — 14-1/2 oz. cans chicken broth
1 garlic clove, minced
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 — 8 oz. packages cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup half-and-half cream
1/4 cup butter, cubed

Toppings:

1 pound bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup minced chives

Directions

~Place potatoes and onion in a six-quart crock pot; add broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook, covered, on low eight to 10 hours.

~Mash potatoes to desired consistency. Stir in cream cheese, cream, and butter. Cook, covered, 15 to 20 minutes longer.

~Just before serving, whisk soup to combine.

~Top servings with bacon, cheese, and chives.

~Makes 12 servings.