Ingredients for 6 servings:
1. 6 large baking potatoes, peeled, cut in 1/2 -inch cubes
2. 1 large onion, chopped
3. 1 quart chicken broth
4. 3 garlic cloves, minced (or pressed)
5. 1/4 cup butter
6. 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
7. 1 teaspoon pepper
8. 1 cup cream or 1 cup half-and-half cream
9. 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
10. 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
11. 1 cup sour cream
12. 8 slices bacon, fried & crumbled
13. cheese, for sprinkling

Directions:
1. Combine first seven ingredients in a large crock pot; cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours (potato should be tender).
2. Mash mixture until potatoes are coarsely chopped and soup is slightly thickened.
3. Stir in cream, cheese and chives.
4. Top with sour cream (if used), sprinkle with bacon and more cheese.