tasty bites: broccoli cheese soup.

broccoli cheese soup is one of my favorite things. i've tried a few different recipes and this one is by far the best, in my opinion. its so easy and it makes a lot...these things make me love it even more.

ingredients:

-3 packages frozen chopped broccoli
-3 cans chicken broth
-6 tbs. margarine
-1 onion, finely chopped
-1/2 cup flour
-2 cups of milk (i usually add about 3)
-3/4 to 1 lb. velveeta
-2 to 3 cups shredded cheddar
-pinch of white pepper (black works just fine)

*ok-here's a tip. the recipe actually calls for 1 1/2 pounds of velveeta. i usually use 3/4 to 1 pound. the stuff kind of grosses me out, but it really is good in this soup. so i limit the velveeta and add lots of shredded cheddar, probably 2 to 3 cups. i'm not good at measuring, i kind of throw stuff in as i go!

*one other thing. the last few times i've made this soup i added a handful of fine egg noodles. they look like crushed up spaghetti noodles.

directions:

-over medium heat, simmer broccoli in chicken broth for 15 minutes.
-in a skillet, melt butter and cook onions for about 5 minutes, or until tender.
-add flour to onions and stir well, until a pasty substance forms. gradually add milk and stir until thick.
-add milk mixture to chicken broth mixture.
-add the cheese and stir until melted. add the pepper. (be sure not to let the soup boil or the cheese will break down.)
-add noodles, if desired. the soup is done when noodles are tender.