Broccoli Cheese Soup a la Panera Bread

Broccoli Cheese Soup

~ Panera Bread

I have loved this soup from the day I tasted it, about 7 years ago, when a friend took me to Panera for lunch. I ordered ham and swiss on Asiago bread and a cup of this soup. You can’t imagine my pleasure when, several years ago, I found the recipe on their website. I’ve made it several times since. With some crusty French bread, it was the perfect lunch for this cold, blustery, snowy day.

1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 medium chopped onion
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 pound fresh broccoli florets, chopped
1 cup carrot, julienned
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper

Directions:
Saute onion in butter, set aside.

In large heavy saucepan, mix melted butter and flour (to make a roux) over medium heat, using a whisk to stir, making sure flour and butter are well mixed, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stirring constantly, add in the half-and-half. Stir until mixture is smooth and without lumps.

Add chicken stock and carrots. Simmer 20 minutes.

Add broccoli and onions. Cook over low heat 10 to 15 minutes.

Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add cheese and stir to blend cheese well.