CHEESY CREAM OF ASPARAGUS SOUP

Cheesy Cream of Asparagus Soup image

Kids may not want to try a vegetable soup, but once they spoon up a mouthful of this cheesy variety, the flavor will keep them coming back for more. -Muriel Lerdal, Humboldt, Iowa

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 25m

Yield 6 servings (1 quart).

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

2 packages (12 ounces each) frozen cut asparagus
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
4 to 5 drops hot pepper sauce
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 to 1 teaspoon pepper
Roasted asparagus tips, optional

Steps:

Prepare asparagus according to package directions; drain and set aside. In a large saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Cool slightly., Pour half the milk mixture into a blender; add half the asparagus. Cover and process until very smooth; return soup to the saucepan. Repeat with the remaining milk mixture and asparagus. Stir in the cheese, hot pepper sauce, salt and pepper; heat through (do not boil). If desired, top with roasted asparagus tips.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 261 calories, Fat 19g fat (12g saturated fat), Cholesterol 59mg cholesterol, Sodium 852mg sodium, Carbohydrate 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 12g protein.