Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup

Ingredients

4 cups water

4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 can cream of celery soup

2 cups diced ham

1 cup (2 sticks) butter

1/2 cup flour

4 cups milk (any variety)

Pinch of red pepper, optional

2 cups (8-ounces) shredded cheese (your favorite flavor, reduced fat or regular)

Garnish: chopped chives, green onions, crisp bacon bits and shredded Cheddar cheese

Preparation