Step 1

Place the bacon in a large soup pot and cook on medium heat until browned and crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain.

Step 2

Add the white parts of the scallions to the pot. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Add the half-and-half or milk and salt and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are soft, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, chop or crumble the bacon.

Step 3

At this point, mash with a potato masher or purée with an immersion blender into your desired consistency. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve sprinkled with cheese, scallion greens, and bacon.