Bacon Beer Cheese Soup with Crispy Idaho® Potato Croutons | Idaho Potato Commission

Ingredients

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery ribs, finely diced
• 1 large carrot, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped thyme
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces beer (bock, pilsner, pale ale)
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 heaping teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar
• 4 ounces grated smoked gouda
• 2 ounces Velveeta, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and pepper
• Sliced scallions for serving
• 8 ounces <a href="../../">Idaho®</a> baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning