Loaded baked potato soup

I have been trying to make at least one crock pot of soup a week this winter. This one was for my potato-philic daughter.

• 6 large baking potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoons pepper
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Combine all ingredients except milk, cheese and bacon. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4. Mash potatoes to desired texture, stir in milk and cheese. Serve with topped with bacon, sour cream or more cheese, if desired. Or all three.