Cream of Broccoli & Kielbasa Cheese Soup

frozen broccoli florets or chopped broccoli (see NOTES)

medium potatoes, unpleeled cut in chunks

chicken stock

small onion, chopped

butter

sprigs fresh thyme -OR- ½ tsp dried thyme

half-and-half cream

fully cooked kielbasa, cut in ¼-inch slices

whole milk

shredded cheddar cheese (I used white cheddar)

salt and pepper

Thickening (if desired):

flour

water