Loaded Baked Potato Soup with Crispy Toppings Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large russet potatoes (washed, scrubbed, pricked with fork)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream (warm)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• Potato skins (from baked potatoes, brushed with oil, roasted until crisp)
• 6 strips turkey bacon (cooked until crispy, crumbled)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/4 cup green onions or chives (finely sliced)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)