COPYCAT PANERA BREAD BROCCOLI & CHEESE SOUP

copycat Panera Bread Broccoli & Cheese Soup image

Provided by Linda Kauppinen

Time 1h

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 Tbsp butter, melted (for onions)
1/2 large onion, finely chopped
1/4 c flour
1/4 c butter, melted
2 c half and half
2 c chicken stock
1/2 lb fresh broccolli
1 c carrots, finely chopped
1/4 tsp nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste
2 c grated sharp cheddar cheese
4 bread bowls

Steps:

1. Saute onion in 1 tbls. butter In another pan, cook melted butter and flour , whisking over medium heat for 3-4 minutes Slowly add half & half while continuing to whisk Add chicken stock, while continuing to whisk Once it starts to simmer, let simmer for 20 minutes
2. Add broccoli, carrots and onions Cook over low heat until veggies are tender Add salt and pepper
3. Pour in batches into blender and mix or use immersion blender Return to pot and over low heat, add cheese, stirring until well blended Stir in the nutmeg
4. Make or purchase individual sized bread rounds Cut tops off of bread bowls Hollow out Pour soup into bowls