soup lovers — Les Petites Gourmettes

Ingredients

• 8 strips of bacon, diced
• 2 medium onions, peeled and diced
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 5 large russet potatoes; peeled and cubed
• 2 1/2 cups half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley