Potato and Bacon Soup 🥔🥓  
Warm your heart and soul with this hearty delight, perfect for family gatherings. Don't miss out on the comfort of this creamy classic! 

🍽️ Ingredients 🍽️  
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced  
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter option  
- 3 cloves garlic, minced  
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped  
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth  
- 1 medium onion, diced  
- Salt and pepper to taste  
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)  
- Chopped green onions or chives, for garnish  
- Shredded cheddar cheese, for serving (optional)  

🧑‍🍳 Directions 🧑‍🍳  
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave approximately 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.  
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.  
3. Add the diced potatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. If you're using dried thyme, add that as well. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.  
4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only a portion or transfer half of the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.  
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup heat through for another 5 minutes.  
6. Serve the soup in bowls, topping each with the crispy bacon, chopped green onions or chives, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.  

🍎 Nutritional Information 🍎  
Approximate per serving:  
- Calories: 400  
- Carbohydrates: 35g  
- Protein: 10g  
- Fat: 25g  

💡 Tips and Tricks 💡  
- This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.  
- For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or freshly cracked black pepper.  

⏳ Preparation time 🍰  
Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Serving: 6.  

Enjoy this creamy and savory potato and bacon soup that's sure to keep you warm during those chilly days!