Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ medium white onion (chopped)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¼ cup all purpose flour
• 3 cups half-and-half
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots (shredded)
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
• salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Sauté 1/2 medium white onion, in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and set aside. In a large pot, whisk together the melted 1/4 cup unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup all purpose flour over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes.
2. Slowly whisk in 3 cups half-and-half and 3 cups chicken stock. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. Add 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, 1 cup carrots, and sautéed onions. Let them simmer on medium-low for about 25 minutes until the broccoli and carrots are tender.
4. Add 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, salt and pepper to taste, and 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt, and then serve. For a smoother soup, you can puree the soup.