Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

This is a creamy and delish soup that tastes just like it does at Panera Bread!!!
(no serving size given)

1 T. melted Kerrygold* butter plus 1/4 cup melted, divided
1/2 medium sweet* onion, finely* chopped
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half and half
2 cups low* sodium* chicken stock
1/2 lb. fresh broccoli (about 1 cup), cut into little florets*
1 cup organic* carrots, julienned
1/4 t. fresh* nutmeg
8 oz. grated sharp Cheddar cheese
Kosher* salt and freshly* ground pepper, to taste

Saute the onion in 1 T. melted butter and set aside. In a large pot whisk together the 1/4 cup melted butter and flour over med. heat for about 3-4 min. Slowly whisk in the half and half and chicken stock. Let it simmer for about 20 min. Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions. Let them simmer on med. low for about 25 min. until the broccoli and carrots are tender. Add nutmeg, S&P, and sharp Cheddar. Let the cheese melt and then serve. For a smoother soup, puree it in a blender.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son so we might be saved."

Love,

MM