Slowcooker Savory Cheese Soup

This comforting soup from Anne Huseby of Lakeville, Minnesota is a welcome treat on wintry days.  It's so satisfying, you might wish there were leftovers!

• Ready In: 6 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 14 1⁄2 ounces chicken broth
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped carrot
• 1⁄4 cup  chopped celery
• 1  tablespoon  chopped onion
• 1  tablespoon  chopped  sweet red pepper
• 2  teaspoons butter
• 1⁄8-1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 2  tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2  tablespoons cold water
• 3  ounces cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 3⁄4 cup  shredded cheddar cheese
• 1⁄3 cup beer or 1⁄3 cup  additional chicken broth

Directions

1. In a 1 1/2 quart slow cooker, combine the first seven ingredients.  Cover and cook on low for 5 hours.
2. Combine the flour and water until smooth, stir into the soup.  Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes or until thickened.
3. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until blended.
4. Stir in beer or additional broth.
5. Cover and cook on low for 10 minutes or until heated through.
6. Top with croutons, bacon, and green onions if desired.