Julia shure of Albany, California, writes: "This comforting soup has both cream cheese and cheddar, which give it a rich, smooth texture. While it makes an elegant first course, the soup can also be a satisfying meal partnered with a simple salad and some crusty bread."
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
1 large leek (white and pale green parts only), thinly sliced
1 large garlic clove, minced
4 large potatoes (about 2 1/4 lbs), peeled, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 large carrots, peeled, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
4 cups low salt chicken broth