LOADED BROCCOLI, CHEESE, & POTATO SOUP

LOADED BROCCOLI, CHEESE, & POTATO SOUP 2 - 14.5 oz. cans chicken broth 2-3 large carrots, peeled and diced 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed into small pieces 1 tsp. onion powder 2 small heads broccoli (washed and diced small) 3 Tbsp. butter ⅓ cup flour 3½ - 4 cups milk 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. garlic pepper 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped In a large pot combine chicken broth, carrots potatoes and onion powder. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for about 10 minutes. Add broccoli, cover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. While simmering, melt butter in a large sauce pan. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute (or until golden brown). Whisk in milk and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add cheese and stir until it is all melted. Add salt and garlic pepper. Pour cheese sauce into the large pot and stir until well combined. Add more milk for a thinner consistency if you like a thinner soup and add any additional salt and pepper needed. Top with bacon pieces and serve warm!!!