1/4 c. butter
1 1/2 c. onion, chopped
1 c. celery, chopped
1 (20 oz.) pkg. broccoli
3 1/2 c. chicken broth
1/2 lb. Cheddar cheese
1/2 c. half & half
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp. salt & pepper to taste

Melt butter in large saucepan. Add onions and celery and saute until tender. Add broccoli and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer 8 minutes until broccoli is tender. Cool some and puree about 2 1/2 cups at a time in blender or food processor. Pour back into pot, add cheese, half & half, and seasonings. Heat on low heat, stirring constantly. Can be doubled, can be frozen and reheated. Serves 6.