Step 1

Place potatoes, broth, garlic, salt and bay leaf in a 6-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low until the potatoes are very tender, about 6 hours. Turn off the slow cooker.

Step 2

Remove and discard the garlic and bay leaf. Add half-and-half and pepper to the potato mixture; mash using a potato masher, leaving some chunks.

Step 3

Pour half of the potato mixture into a blender. Secure the lid on the blender and remove the center piece to allow steam to escape. Place a clean towel over the opening. Process for 10 seconds. (Use caution when blending hot liquids.) Return the blended soup to the remaining potato mixture in the slow cooker; stir to combine. Ladle evenly into 6 bowls. Top evenly with cheese, yogurt, scallions and bacon.