CHEESY CREAMY HAM AND POTATO SOUP

Steps:

• Boil ham bone in 4 cups of water in large COVERED stock pot for approx 1 hour. (If omitting this step use 4 chicken bouillon or 4 cups chicken broth instead).
• Remove ham bone and strain stock to remove any debris.
• Boil the 2 med potatoes halved in stock until softened, remove to separate bowl.
• Combine 2 1/4 cups diced potatoes, 1 med onion, DICED HAM, and 3 minced garlic cloves and add to stock. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook until potatoes are tender.
• Mash 2 halved potatoes with small amount of milk and add to stock (helps to thicken).
• In separate pan, melt butter. Add in flour a tablespoon at a time to make a roux or paste. Add milk and blend well to make a cream sauce.
• Simmer cream sauce for 2 minutes. Add cheese and blend well. Mixture will be very gooey.
• Add cheese blend to soup and gently mix to combine.