1 pound uncooked bratwurst links, casings removed
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 medium carrot, chopped
2 cans (15-1/2 ounces each) navy beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup pickled jalapeno slices, chopped
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups 2% milk, divided
12 slices American cheese

In a Dutch oven, cook and crumble bratwurst with onion and carrot over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, 5-7 minutes; drain.

Stir in beans, jalapeno, pepper and broth; bring to a boil. Whisk together flour and 1/2 cup milk until smooth; stir into soup. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir until thickened, about 5 minutes. Gradually stir in remaining milk. Add cheese; cook and stir over low heat until melted.