Creamy Broccoli, Rice and Cheddar Soup

Serves 6

Ingredients

One 6 oz. package Farmhouse Broccoli au Gratin Rice
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tablespoon butter or margarine
2-1/4 cups water
One 14.5 oz. can chicken broth
2 cups milk
1-1/2 cups frozen broccoli flowerets, thawed and finely chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a Dutch oven, sauté onion and garlic in butter or margarine until tender.
  2. Add water and chicken broth; bring to a boil. Stir in rice and contents of seasoning packet.
  3. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
  4. Remove from heat; add milk to rice mixture, stir to combine.
  5. Transfer half of rice mixture to a blender or food processor and process until smooth.
  6. Return puree mixture to contents of Dutch oven; add broccoli and cook over medium-low heat stirring frequently 5-8 minutes or until broccoli is crisp-tender (do not boil).
  7. Add cheese, stir until cheese is melted. Season to taste with salt and pepper.