Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 pounds russet potatoes (about 7 medium potatoes)
• 1/4 pound thick sliced bacon, cut crosswise into 1/8-inch slices (lardons)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
• 1/8 teaspoon of ground white or black pepper
• 2 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
• Grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Minced chives
• Crumbled bacon (from step 2 in method)