Soup of the Day- Panera Bread Inspired Broccoli Cheese Soup

Ingredients Needed:
1 Tablespoon Butter, Melted
1/2 Medium Onion, Chopped
1/4 Cup of Flour
2 Cups of Half and Half
2 Cups of Chicken Stock
1 Pound of Fresh Broccoli
1 Cup of Carrots, Julienned
Salt and Pepper to Taste
1 Teaspoon of Garlic Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg
8 Ounces Grated Sharp Cheddar


Sauté chopped onion in 1 tablespoon of melted butter and set aside

Using a whisk combine 1/4 cup of butter and flour over medium heat cooking for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and slowly add the half and half to make a roux.

Still constantly stirring, add in the chicken broth and simmer for 20 minutes.

Add in 1/2 of the broccoli {1/2 Pound - cut in pieces}, carrots, and sautéed onions.

Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes until the veggies are tender. Add salt, pepper and garlic powder. The soup should be thickened by now.

Pour soup in batches into a blender and puree.

Return to pot over low heat and add the grated cheese, stirring until well blended. Steam the remaining 1/2 of the fresh broccoli {cut into pieces} and add to soup. Stir in nutmeg.

Top with additional grated cheese and serve...Enjoy!

Recipe from Under the Table and Dreaming