Creamy Potato Soup

We've had a few chilly days around here lately and so I decided to find a new soup recipe. Turns out I found a great one. The flavors are simple but its creamy and delicious. We'll be having this more while its cold out!

Creamy Potato Soup
Recipe Source: ThePioneerWoman.com

6 slices Bacon, cut in 1-inch pieces
1 medium Onion, diced
3 Carrots, peeled and diced
3 stalks Celery, diced
6 small Russet Potatoes, peeled and diced
8 cups Chicken
3 Tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
1 cup Milk
1/2 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 teaspoon Salt
Black Pepper, to taste
1 cup Cheese, your choice, grated

1. In a stock pot over medium heat add bacon and cook until crisp and fat is rendered. Remove the bacon from the pot and set on a plate covered with a paper towel. Drain the grease but don't clean the pot.

2. Return the pot to medium-high heat and add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 2 minutes then add the potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes then season with salt and pepper.

3. Pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are almost tender. In a small bowl whisk the flour and the milk, then pour it in the soup and cook for 5 more minutes.

4. Remove about half of the soup and blend in a blender or a food processor until its smooth. Pour it back into the stock pot and stir to combine. Let it heat back up and season to taste. Stir in the cream. Serve with cheese and bacon pieces on top.