Loaded Potato Chowder

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound bacon
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry or white wine
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups half and half
• 3 chicken bouillon cubes
• 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into small pieces
• Salt and Pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• chopped chives

Instructions

1. 1
   Cut the uncooked bacon in small pieces. Heat a heavy pan and fry the bacon pieces until crisp. Remove the bacon bits to a plate lined with a paper towel. Take a paper towel and soak up all but 2 tablespoons of bacon grease and discard.
2. 2
   Saute the onion, garlic, and thyme for 5 minutes until the onion is soft and tender. Stir in the dry sherry and cook for 2 minutes. Add the chicken broth, half and half, and bouillon. Bring the broth to a boil. Add the potatoes and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and allow the soup to cook for 20 minutes stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper if necessary.
3. 3
   To serve the soup, top each bowl with a couple spoonfuls of shredded cheese, sour cream, bacon pieces, and chives.