LOADED BROCCOLI, CHEESE, & POTATO SOUP

Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, & Potato Soup is a rich and comforting dish that blends the flavors of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and potatoes. It’s a hearty soup, often enjoyed in cooler seasons, featuring a creamy texture and topped with ingredients like cheese and bacon for extra taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (14.5 oz. each) chicken broth
• 2-3 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed into small pieces
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 small heads of broccoli, finely diced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 3½ – 4 cups milk
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic pepper
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, diced carrots, cubed potatoes, and onion powder.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
3. Introduce the finely diced broccoli to the pot, cover it again, and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, in a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Gradually whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute until the mixture takes on a golden brown color.
6. Continue whisking as you gradually pour in the milk, allowing the sauce to thicken over the course of about 5 minutes.
7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring it melts evenly into the sauce.
8. Add the salt and garlic pepper, enhancing the flavors of the cheese sauce.
9. Pour the cheese sauce into the large pot with the simmering vegetables, stirring until everything is well combined.
10. If you prefer a thinner soup consistency, feel free to add more milk at this stage. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
11. Ladle the creamy chowder into bowls and garnish with the chopped bacon pieces.
12. Serve the delightful chowder while it’s still warm, savoring each spoonful of its comforting flavors!