Ham and Cheese Soup

• 1/4 cup cream
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1/4 cup bell pepper - chopped
• 1/2 cup celery - chopped
• 1/2 cup onions - chopped
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
• chopped green onions for garnish

Fry all onions, celery, and bell pepper in oil until tender. Add ham and saute to release some oils and meld the flavors. Add stock/broth, bay leaf, and basil. Simmer to reduce slightly (20-30 minutes).

Add cream and return to boil to thicken a bit. Slowly add cheese - stirring constantly. Serve immediately.

Garnish with green onion, if desired.