Beer Cheese Soup

Ingredients (20)

• 8 ounces thick-cut bacon, diced into 1/2-inch pieces (once the bacon has cooked, you will reserve 2 tablespoons of the grease)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup yellow onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 teaspoons seasoning salt, I used Lowry’s brand
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 32 ounces low-sodium chicken broth
• 12 ounces lager beer, I used Budweiser - NOT Bud Light
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 16 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped - for garnish
• Cheese bread (optional):
• 1 french baguette, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded