Baked potato soup

(all recipes.com)
Serves 4 , after potatoes are baked 30 minute meal

3 strips of bacon, diced
1 small onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 cups chicken broth
2 large baked potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup half-and-half
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
shredded cheddar cheese
minced parsley or consider chives
extra bacon crumbles

Directions
1. 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 add broth. Bring to boil; boil and stir for 2 minutes. Add the potatoes, cream and hot pepper sauce; heat through but do not boil. Garnish with bacon, cheese, parsley or chives.