Ingredients

• 3 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 1 celery rib, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped sweet red pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cold water
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed and softened
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• 1 (12 fluid ounce) can beer (optional)
• Optional toppings: croutons, popcorn, cooked crumbled bacon, sliced green onions