RICH AND CREAMY BROCCOLI & CHEESE SOUP

Rich and creamy broccoli & cheese soup image

Provided by sherry monfils

Time 1h

Number Of Ingredients 12

6 Tbsp butter
2 tsp minced garlic
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 c flour
2 c light cream
3 c lowe-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1/4 tsp nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
4 c broccoli florets
1 carrot, diced
2-1/2 c shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Steps:

1. Melt butter in lg pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring for 5 mins. Whisk in flour. Whisk in light cream slowly. Whisk until smooth.
2. Pour in chicken broth. Add bay leaves and nutmeg. Season w/ salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to med-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 20 mins.
3. Add broccoli and carrot. Simmer another 20 mins. Discard bay leaves. Puree soup, in batches in a blender. Return to pot. Add cheese, whisk until cheese is melted.