Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

Ingredients:

1 TBS butter, softened
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 C melted butter
1/4 C flour
2 C half and half
2 C chicken stock
1/2 lb fresh broccoli
1 C carrots, julienned
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp nutmeg
8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions:

Saute onion in butter. Set aside. Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and slowly add the half and half, making a roux. Add chicken stock whisking all the time. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions. Cook over low heat until veggies are tender, about 20-25 minutes. Add salt and pepper. The soup should be thickened by now. Pour in batches into blender and puree. Return to pot over low and add grated cheese; stir until well blended. Stir in nutmeg and serve.