Hearty Potato Soup - A Comforting Classic

Ingredients

• 5 slices bacon, diced
• 3 tablespoons (reserved) bacon grease or butter
• 1 cup diced white or yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
• 2 cups milk, warmed
• 1.5 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, diced
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• optional toppings: thinly-sliced green onions or chives, extra shredded cheese, extra bacon, sour cream