Creamy Broccoli and Ham Soup With Cheese

• 1 (16 ounce) bag frozen broccoli, thawed
• 12 cup chopped sweet onion
• 12 cup uncooked instant rice
• 2 12 teaspoons Italian salad dressing
• 34 cup chopped cooked ham
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 12 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• salt and pepper

1. Cook onion in dressing in a large saucepan until tender.
2. Add broth, water, and broccoli.
3. Bring to a boil 8 to 10 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. Stir in milk and rice.
5. Reduce heat to medium.
6. Cook 5 minutes.
7. Pour into a blender container in small batches.
8. Blend until smooth.
9. Return to saucepan.
10. Add ham; stir until ham is heated through.
11. Top each serving with 1/3 cup cheese.
12. Serve with croutons if desired.

frozen broccoli, sweet onion, rice, italian salad dressing, ham, milk, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, water, salt

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/creamy-broccoli-and-ham-soup-with-cheese-114309 (may not work)