Pile this Smoky Loaded Sweet Potato Soup high with whatever toppings you choose! I love bacon, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and chives.
In a Dutch oven or large, heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, 5-6 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon fat and sautee until softened but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and sautee until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the sweet potatoes, cumin, and paprika. Pour in the chicken broth and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and puree the soup with an immersion blender. (Alternatively, puree it in batches in a regular blender.) Stir in the liquid smoke, if using. Serve the soup garnished with the reserved bacon, plus your toppings of choice.