Creamy Garlic Parmesan Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 3 cloves Garlic
• 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
• 2 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup Milk (or half-and-half)
• 0.5 cup Heavy cream (optional for extra richness)(optional)
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• to taste Salt(optional)
• to taste Black pepper(optional)
• 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (about 5 minutes): Mince the garlic and grate the Parmesan. Measure the flour, broth, and milk/cream.

2. 2

   Cook (about 12 minutes): In a small pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. 3

   Cook (about 12 minutes): Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.

4. 4

   Cook (about 12 minutes): Slowly whisk in the broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

5. 5

   Cook (about 12 minutes): Reduce heat to low. Whisk in the milk (and cream if using) and simmer gently for 2 minutes.

6. 6

   Cook (about 12 minutes): Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan until silky and fully melted. Season with salt and black pepper (and red pepper flakes if using).