Broccoli Cheddar Soup

So I'm pretty sure everyone knows of Panera Bread's Broccoli Cheddar Soup and if you don't then you really need to try it. Well, its so good that I wanted to recreate this masterful soup in my own kitchen. I was afraid because I hate onions but I didn't want to deviate from the recipe so not to change the taste. And I was scared that it wouldn't come out tasting anything like their soup but to my surprise it tasted fabulous and my husband said it tasted even better! Now I want to make it all the time!

Ingredients:
1 Tbsp butter, melted
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half and half
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 lb. fresh broccoli
1 cup carrots julienned
salt and pepper taste
1/4 tsp nutmeg
8 oz grated sharp cheddar

Sautee onion in butter. Set aside. Cook melted butter and flour whisking together over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Add in half and half, constantly stirring and pouring at the same time. Add the chicken stock the same way. Simmer for 20 minutes frequently stirring. Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions. Cook over low heat until vegetables have become tender approximately 20-25 minutes. Add salt and pepper to your liking (approximately 1 tsp each for appropriate taste). The soup should have thickened by this point. Pour into food processor and puree. Return soup to pot over low heat. Add grated cheese. Stir until well blended. Stir in nutmeg.
Serve with toasted bread.

Enjoy!