Mashed Potato Soup

• 4 baking potatoes (about 2 lb.)
• 4 slices bacon
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack
• Salt and pepper
• 4 ounces sour cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives or scallions

1. Prick potatoes all over with a fork; microwave on high until cooked through, turning once, 12 to 15 minutes total. Let cool slightly and scoop out flesh, discarding skins. Mash with a fork. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crisp, turning once, about 10 minutes total. Let cool, then crumble.
2. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth and light golden, about 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in milk and cook, whisking, until thickened, 5 to 6 minutes.
3. Stir in cheese, potatoes and 1/2 tsp. each salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until cheese melts and soup is heated through. Whisk in sour cream. Check seasoning and add additional salt and pepper if desired. Divide among 6 soup bowls and sprinkle each with bacon and chives.
4. This recipe also appeared in the September 2010 issue.

baking potatoes, bacon, unsalted butter, flour, milk, salt, sour cream, chives

Taken from www.myrecipes.com/recipe/mashed-potato-soup (may not work)