Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

I felt inspired to make something warm and comforting on a cold snowy winter day. Soup came to mind and I’ve always been a fan of Panera Bread’s broccoli cheddar soup. So I decided to give it a try. It was a hit! You can follow along on this process in this IG Reel.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1/2 medium chopped onion

• 1/4 cup flour

• 2 cups half-and-half cream

• 2 cups chicken stock or broth

• 1/2 lb broccoli, (about 3 cups), chopped into bite size pieces, rinsed

• 1 cup carrot, , julienned (can buy matchstick carrots in produce section), rinsed

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, (optional but brings out the flavor)

• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese, (2 cups)

• salt and pepper

The Process

• Chop up the broccoli, onions and shred the carrots. Set to the side

• Melt the 1/4 cup butter and sautee the onions in it until soft. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Cook and stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.

• Whisk in the half & half and chicken stock. Stir for 1 minute.

• Add the broccoli and carrots. Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the broccoli and carrots are tender.

• Add salt and pepper. Return to low heat and add the cheese. If your heat is too high your soup will get grainy. Stir in the nutmeg if desired.

• Serve with bread on the side, if desired.

• Enjoy!

XOXO

Tiff