Broccoli Cheese Soup VIII

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 (16 ounce) packages chopped frozen broccoli
• thawed
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 4 cups water
• divided
• 2 pounds processed cheese
• cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup cornstarch

Instructions

1. Steam the broccoli in a steamer or in a colander over boiling water until tender and bright green, 15 minutes.
2. Set aside.
3. In a large microwave safe bowl, combine half-and-half, 2 cups water and cheese.
4. Cook in microwave until cheese is melted and smooth, stirring every 2 minutes.
5. Stir in salt, pepper and garlic powder and cook 2 minutes more.
6. In a separate bowl, combine cornstarch and remaining 2 cups water, stirring to dissolve.
7. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the soup.
8. Return the soup to the microwave, heating and stirring every 2 minutes until thick.
9. Stir in broccoli; heat once more and serve.