Baked Potato Soup #1

from allrecipes

3 bacon strips, diced

1 small onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (4 T for thicker soup)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon dried basil (or less to taste)

1/2 teaspoon pepper

3 cups chicken broth

2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 cup half-and-half cream

1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Shredded Cheddar cheese
minced fresh parsley

Cook potatoes in broth until tender.

In a large saucepan, cook bacon until crisp. Drain, reserving 1 tablespoon drippings. Set bacon aside. Saute onion and garlic in the drippings until tender. Stir in flour, salt, basil and pepper; mix well. Gradually stir in broth and potato mixture. Bring to boil; boil and stir for 2 minutes. Add the cream and hot pepper sauce; heat through but do not boil. Garnish with bacon, cheese, green onions and parsley.