This is a classic dish that I see almost every time I go out to eat.  I wanted to be able to eat this wonderful soup at home as well so I threw on my apron and came up with this recipe.  This soup is great as a side dish with sandwiches or can be served as a main dish.

5 Tablespoons butter
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion chopped
1/3 cup flour
1 cup milk
1 cup of half and half (feel free to us the fat-free version)
2 cups of chicken broth (low sodium) or Vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
3 cups cooked and chopped broccoli
3 cups cheddar cheese
salt and pepper to taste

In a dutch oven or stew pot melt butter.  Add olive oil and chopped onion.  Cook over medium heat until onion is translucent.  Using a whisk, stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes longer.  Whisk in milk, half and half and chicken broth.  Add garlic powder and broccoli and stir until mixture starts to thicken.  Add cheese and season to taste.  Continue cooking over medium heat until cheese has melted.   Serve hot.

~Marsha Bradford