CHEESY CREAM OF BROCCOLI SOUP

Cheesy Cream of Broccoli Soup image

Provided by Dana Ramsey

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 Tbsp butter, don't substitute
2 Tbsp all purpose flour
1/2 of a large onion, chopped
1 c fat free half and half
32 oz low sodium chicken broth or veggie stock
28 oz bag of frozen broccoli florets
1 lb 2% velveeta cheese, cubbed
8 oz of shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp crushed red peppers, optional
freshly ground pepper to taste

Steps:

1. What I did first was take my broccoli and place it in a microwave safe bowl and cooked it for about 8 minutes and set aside.
2. In a large pan I melted my butter, flour and onions together for about a minute or two, and then I slowly added the half and half and whisked until thick and smooth. Once the half and half was mixed with the flour, onion and butter I added my broccoli and the velveeta cheese, after the cheese was completely melted and nice and smooth I added my chicken broth a little at a time until I got it to the consistency I wanted. At first I did not use all the broth but put the rest in later which you will see in a moment.
3. Cook this about 20 minutes on simmer then add the remaining cheese, stir until melted. I had about 2 ounces of stock left and decided to put it in as it was just a little too thick for my taste. Use your own judgment.