Ingredients

  • 3 c. water
  • 4 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 1 c. celery, sliced
  • 1 c. carrots, sliced
  • 1/2 c. onion, diced
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 c. butter
  • 1/2 c. flour
  • 4 c. milk
  • 1 lb. sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 c. cooked ham, cubed
  • hot sauce

Method

  • Bring water to a boil in a Dutch oven; add vegetables, salt and pepper.
  • Cover and simmer 10 minutes, or until vegetables are done.
  • Melt butter; blend in flour.
  • Gradually stir in milk.
  • Cook. Stir constantly until mixture comes to a boil; boil 1 minute. Add cheese; stir until melted.
  • Stir cheese mixture into vegetables.
  • Add ham and hot sauce to taste, stirring well.
  • Heat thoroughly, but do not boil.
  • Makes 12 servings.