Ingredients

8 ounces sliced bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1 large sweet onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 10-ounce packages frozen corn

3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup half-and-half

Kosher salt and pepper

4 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced

Preparation

Cook the bacon in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Spoon off and discard all but 2 tablespoons of the drippings and return the pot to medium heat. Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until soft, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic, paprika, and red pepper and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in the corn, broth, and half-and-half and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Transfer half the soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Return to the pot, add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and stir to combine.

Divide the soup among individual bowls and top with the scallions and reserved bacon.