Panera's Broccoli Cheddar Soup

 original recipe found here

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 2 cups chicken stock or broth
• 1/2 lb broccoli, chopped
• 1 cup carrot, grated
• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Melt the 1/4 cup butter. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter. Cook and stir over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
2. Whisk in the half & half and chicken stock.
3. Add the broccoli and carrots. Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes or until the broccoli and carrots are tender.
4. Add salt and pepper. You can leave the soup chunky or blend about 1 cup of the soup and stir it in for a smoother soup (that's what I do). Return to low heat and add the cheese. If your heat is too high your soup can get grainy.