Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1

Cook butter and diced onions in a pot until onions are translucent.

2

Add flour to the pot and stir well. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture starts to brown very slightly.

3

Add chicken broth to the pot and whisk until smooth.

4

Add half and half to the pot and whisk again.

5

Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper to the pot and whisk well.

6

Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a boil. Add broccoli florets and shredded carrots and stir well.

7

Reduce the heat to medium-low and leave the soup to simmer, stirring frequently until the broccoli and carrots are tender.

8

Remove the pot from the heat and add shredded cheddar.

9

Stir until the cheese is melted.

10

Serve in bread bowls if desired. Enjoy!