Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

 

Ingredients:

3 medium broccoli crowns, chopped

1 small white onion, diced

1 cup matchstick carrots

2 cups half and half

4 cups chicken broth

5 tbsp. butter, divided use

¼ cup flour

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

8-oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese

salt and pepper

shredded marbled cheddar, for serving

Directions:

In a large stockpot over medium heat sauté onions in 1 tbsp. butter until soft.

Remove.

Melt remaining butter.

Whisk flour into butter and cook about 5 minutes.

Slowly add 2 cups broth and half and half.

Stir well.

Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer about 15 minutes.

Add onions, broccoli, carrots and remaining chicken stock.

Stir.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until veggies are tender crisp.*

Add nutmeg, salt, pepper and shredded sharp cheddar.

Stir until cheese is melted and serve.

Serve with marbled cheddar and crusty bread, if desired

Note: * I used the immersion blender after it simmered.