Healthy Broccoli and Cheese Soup

HEALTHY BROCCOLI AND CHEESE SOUP

4 strips turkey bacon, cut into small strips

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 yellow onion, diced

2 carrots, grated

1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

2 cups cauliflower florets

4 cups chicken stock, divided

6 cups broccoli florets, chopped

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese

Heat a large pot over medium heat add turkey bacon strips and sauté until crisp, and then remove from the pot.

Add minced garlic, diced onion, cauliflower florets, salt, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.

Next, add three cups of chicken stock to the pot and bring soup to a simmer. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.

Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth and creamy.  Carefully pour the pureed soup base back into the pot.

Next, stir in the remaining chicken broth, grated carrots, and chopped broccoli florets until well combined. Let the soup simmer for 5-10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Lastly, stir in the shredded cheese until well combined and thoroughly melted.

Serve the soup warm topped with crispy turkey bacon and sliced green onions.