1 lb. broccoli
3 c. chicken stock
3 1/2 c. milk
1 c. chopped cooked ham or 1/2 - 1 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 tsp. salt or less
1/3 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. half & half
1/4 lb. (or more) Cheddar cheese
1/4 c. melted butter
2 oz. (about 5 tbsp.) flour

I prefer using bacon!

Cook broccoli in chicken stock until tender. Remove broccoli and chop coarsely. Make soup: Combine stock, milk, bacon, and seasonings. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Stir in combined butter and flour. Reduce heat. Add broccoli, cream (half & half), and cheese. Heat (but do not boil or soup will curdle!).