Broccoli Potato Soup

 I attempted a broccoli soup a while ago and it ended badly, ha ha.  I've been hesitant to try again.  This one actually turned out delicious, and the whole family really liked it.  

• 2 14.5oz cans chicken broth
• 2-3 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 small heads of broccoli, diced small
• 2 TBS butter
• 1/3 cup (gluten free) flower
• 3 1/2 cups milk
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic pepper
• 6 slices bacon or turkey bacon, cooked and chopped

1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, potatoes, and onion powder.  Bring to boil, cover and simmer for about 10 mins.  
2. Add broccoli, cover and simmer for an additional 10 mins.  
3. While simmering, melt butter in a large sauce pan.  Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute, until golden brown.  Whisk in milk and cook for an additional 5 mins, until sauce thickens.  
4. 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.  Stir in turkey bacon.  
5. Serve warm.