Broccoli Cheese Soup

With December having been such a mild month, January is kicking our bottoms with cold temps!  When it's freezing outside, I crave soup - the ultimate comfort food.  I try to have soup on the menu once a week during the winter months.  This week's choice is Broccoli Cheese Soup.  The original recipe came from Mel's Kitchen Cafe, one of my favorite cooking blogs.  She has great dishes that are all made with real ingredients.  You NEED to check out her site...so many great dishes!  I've slightly altered her recipe to suit our tastes.

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1 small onion, diced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sharp or extra sharp
1 cup shredded swiss cheese
2 1/2 to 3 cups chopped broccoli

Directions:

1. Simmer chicken broth and chopped onion for 15 minutes in a covered small saucepan, until onions are soft. 
2. Chop broccoli and place in large glass bowl.  Cover with Saran Wrap.  Microwave for 3-4 minutes.
3. Heat milk in microwave for 1-2 minutes. 
4. In a separate medium-sized stockpot, melt butter then add flour, salt and pepper. Cook together, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes, then whisk in warmed milk. Stir and heat together on medium heat until soup starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. 
5. Add warmed chicken broth and continue to stir until well blended. Add cheeses and stir until completely melted. Stir in steamed broccoli. Add more salt and pepper to taste, if needed. Serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Angela