Cheesy Cauliflower Soup

INGREDIENTS:
2 large potatoes, diced
1 large cauliflower, cut or broken into florets
1 medium carrot, diced
2 tsp. garlic powder
1 1/2 cups chopped onion
1 1/2 tsp. salt
4 cups water
2-3 cups grated cheddar cheese
3/4 cup low-fat milk
Black pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:
Saute onion in large pot for about 3 minutes until slightly tender and starting to turn slightly golden.  Add garlic and saute for about one minute more.  Add potato, cauliflower, carrot, salt and water.  Bring to a boil and then simmer until vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.  Use an immersion blender or a potato masher to mash vegetables to the desired consistency.  Add in milk and cheese.  Heat until warmed through.