Broccoli Cheese Soup

It was just that kind of day. A big pot of homemade soup on a rainy, dreary day really hits the spot. Everyone in our family loves broccoli except Ryan. It's probably his least favorite food. Sorry Ryan, it just sounded too good to pass up today. Plus, I had broccoli that needed used up in the fridge!

2 tbsp butter
1/2 - 1 cup chopped onion
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
5-6 potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
2 cups broccoli florets, cooked in the microwave until crisp-tender
1 cup diced ham
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar
1/4 cup sour cream
3 tbsp cornstarch, to thicken
pepper

In a large dutch oven, saute onions in butter. Add the chicken broth, milk, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook until potatoes are tender.
Using a masher, mash the potatoes in the pot until most are smooth. (this helps to thicken the soup) Add broccoli and ham. Stir in the shredded cheese; stir until cheese melts. Add the sour cream and stir until mixed in.
At this point I add a little cornstarch mixed with cold water to the bubbly soup. I like my soup thick! This is optional.
Season with a little pepper.

Sausage Minestrone Soup

I love this soup! It is so versatile, you can use whatever you have in the cupboard/fridge.
We just had this last night with some hot corn bread. Thought I'd share the "recipe".

In a large soup pot, saute chopped onion, chopped carrot, and chopped celery in some butter until crisp-tender. Add about 3-4 cups beef broth, 1 can tomato soup, 1 can kidney beans, 1 can corn, 1 can green beans, 1 can diced tomatoes (I use the kind with Italian seasoning), and 1 sliced smoked sausage, 1 small sliced zucchini. (Add any veggies that you like).
Bring to a boil. Add some macaroni and simmer until pasta is tender. Sometimes I will use cheese tortillini. If you need to add more liquid, just add a little water or more broth.
Season how you like, I use oregano, salt, pepper and a little thyme.
Enjoy!