Loaded Broccoli, Cheese, and Potato Soup

 2 14-oz cans chicken broth

2 - 3 large carrots, peeled and diced

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed small

1 tsp onion powder

2 small heads broccoli, washed and diced small

3 TBS butter

1/3 cup flour

3 1/2 - 4 cups milk

4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

 1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

6 sliced bacon, cooked and chopped

In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, potatoes, and onion powder.

Bring to a boil; cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

While simmering, melt butter in a large saucepan.

Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute until golden brown.

Whisk in milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Add cheese and stir until melted.

Add salt and pepper.

Pour cheese mixture into the large pot and stir until well combined.

Add additional milk if needed - season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Top with bacon and serve warm.

Serves 8 - 10