Loaded Baked Potato Soup for Crockpot Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 large baking potatoes, peeled, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (or pressed)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup cream or 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 3 tablespoons fresh chives
• 1 cup sour cream (optional)
• 8 slices bacon, fried and crumbled
• cheese, for sprinkling