Cream of Broccoli Cheese Soup

• medium onion, chopped fine↗1⁄2
• margarine↗6 tablespoons
• flour↗8 tablespoons
• 2% low-fat milk (one quart)↗4 cups
• bunch broccoli, stems and leaves removed↗1
• chicken broth or 1 cup water↗1 cup
• American cheese slices↗8
• salt & pepper

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a large pot over medium heat, cook the onions in the margarine until soft.

2. 2

   Stir in the flour and cook (but do not brown) for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

3. 3

   Whisk in the milk, reduce heat and stir occasionally.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, chop the broccoli florets into small pieces, place in a small saucepan with the broth (or water) and bring to boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer until tender (about 6-8 minutes).

5. 5

   As the milk mixture thickens, stir in the slices of American cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. 6

   When the broccoli is tender, add it (including the cooking liquid) to the thickened cheese mixture. Stir well to combine and serve immediately.