Easy Potato Soup

This is the easiest potato soup and it is really good. I remember seeing my BF Laura's mom make something similar and that is where my inspiration came from. The recipe has been adapted as the years have passed.

The kids love it. My youngest daughter said, "Did you make the potato soup? I teared it up."  It's definitely a family favorite.

Easy Potato Soup

1 large onion, diced
1 clove garlic, chopped
Drizzle of olive oil
10 Small Red Potatoes (or 5 Large Russet), diced small *see photo
1 Can Chicken Broth
5 Cups Whole Milk
Large Handfull Real Bacon bits (I get mine from Costco)
Salt and pepper
1 -2 pinches of hot pepper flakes (optional)
Sprig of fresh thyme or pinch of dried

In a stock pot drizzle a few tablespoons of olive oil to brown the onion. Add onion and pinch of salt; stir occassionally until golden brown - takes about 5 minutes. Add garlic and saute for another minute. Pour in chicken broth, milk, potatoes, bacon, salt, pepper, hot pepper flakes and thyme. Taste. Add salt if needed. Simmer on medium heat for about 20 minutes. When potatoes are tender, puree some of the mixture with an immersion blender.