Beer Cheese Soup

I took a bit of a vacation from blogging but now I'm back!  It is currently snowing and starting to stick.  That means it's soup tonight. I made beer cheese soup tonight and then gathered some more ingredients to thicken it up a bit. But I'll give you the base of the soup.

Beer Cheese Soup 

2 c. heavy whipping cream
2 c. sharp cheddar
12 oz. beer (I used Sam Adams Winter Lager)
3 c. chicken broth
paprika, salt and pepper for taste.

optional:
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb ground sausage
1 c. spinach, finely chopped
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes

Bring 2 c. heavy whipping cream to a boil in a large pot.  Stir in cheddar until completely melted.  Add broth and beer. Stir in paprika, salt and pepper for taste.  Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes.  Now if you would like to add a little more, saute'onions and garlic with the sausage until  meat is fully cooked.  Add mixture to cheese soup, as well as spinach and tomatoes.