Hearty Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients

• 5 pounds baking potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 13 cups)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh chives
• Optional toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, crumbled cooked bacon and minced chives