Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

By longhornfans

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup half-and-half (or milk)
• 1 (16-ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
• 1 (16-ounce) loaf processed cheese (Velveeta or a store brand)
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup julienne-cut carrots (shredded carrots are okay)
• 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

1. Melt butter in large saucepan.
2. Stir in flour and onions. Cook for one minute; Slowly add half-and-half (or milk), about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking until thickened and smooth.
3. Add broccoli and processed cheese.
4. When the cheese is completely melted, add the chicken broth 1 cup at a time, stirring occasionally until soup is well mixed and has a consistent texture.
5. Add carrots and simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese and cook for 10 more minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve when cheese is fully melted and blended through.