1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Onion: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Make the Roux:
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and stir to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
3. Add Liquids and Vegetables:
- Pour in Liquids: Slowly add the chicken stock and half and half, stirring continuously as you pour to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add Broccoli and Carrots: Add the chopped broccoli and carrots to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
- Cook: Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Puree the Soup (Optional):
- Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired texture. You can also transfer it to a blender in batches, but be careful with the hot liquid.
- Adjust Texture: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Mix in Cheese: With the soup on low heat, gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is smooth.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
6. Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional shredded cheese or freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Cheese Selection: Use good-quality sharp cheddar for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience, but it may not melt as smoothly due to added anti-caking agents.
- Low Heat for Cheese: Add cheese over low heat to avoid the soup becoming grainy.
- Stirring: Constant stirring when adding flour and cheese helps maintain a smooth consistency without lumps.
This homemade version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup is comforting, hearty, and perfect for any chilly day. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the familiar flavors of your favorite café right from your kitchen!