1/2 lb. thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon (6 slices), cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
3 scallions, thinly sliced
2 celery ribs, cut into 1/2-inch dice
1 red bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch dice
1 tsp. fresh thyme
5 cups fresh corn kernels (from 10 medium cobs)
1/2 tsp. pure chipotle chile powder
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups lower-salt chicken broth
1 large russet potato, peeled and coarsely grated
Kosher salt
Grated white Cheddar, for garnish (optional)