Baked Potato Soup with Cheddar and Bacon

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

5 cups milk

3 reserved baked potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 cups)

4 scallions, chopped (green and white parts)

¾ cup shredded Cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream

4 slices bacon (regular or turkey bacon), cooked until crisp and crumbled

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the mixture is blended and smooth. Whisk in the milk until blended. Stir in the potatoes and scallions and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Reduce the heat to low, add the cheese, sour cream and bacon, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, until the cheese melts. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serves 4