Country Cheese Soup

Makes 6 servings

Prep Time: 20 min
Cooking Time: 20 min

Ingredients:

• 1/3  cup shredded carrot

• 1/3  cup thinly sliced celery

• 2     Tablespoons finely chopped green pepper

• 2     Tablespoons finely chopped onion

• 1/4  cup (1/2-stick) butter or margarine

• 1/3  cup flour

• 1     teaspoon salt

•        Dash black pepper

• 5     cups milk

• 1     package (8-ounce) Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded (2-cups)

Directions:

1. Cook vegetables in butter in large saucepan on medium heat until tender, stirring frequently.

2. Add flour and seasonings.  Mix well. 

3. Cook 2 minutes or until bubbly, stirring frequently. 

4. Gradually add milk, stirring until well blended. 

5. Cook until mixture boils and thickens, stirring constantly. 

6. Reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes.

7. Add cheese.  Cook until cheese is melted and mixture is heated through, stirring constantly. 

8. Do not boil.

Alan's Kitchen Tip

• Stir in 1/8 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne) or white pepper with the other seasonings.

• Prepare as directed, using Sharp Cheddar Cheese. Or, for a quick and easy alternative, use Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese.