A comforting and creamy potato soup loaded with delicious toppings.
Peel and dice the potatoes into small chunks.
Smaller chunks cook faster and mash more easily.
Chop the onion and celery into small pieces.
Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
In a soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion and celery until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cover with milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Avoid boiling the milk to prevent curdling.
Mash the potatoes in the pot to your desired consistency.
For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and fresh chives.
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.