Broccoli and Cheese Soup

I found this recipe online, it's supposed to be close to Panera's recipe. I made it last night and it was delicious!

1 Tbsp. butter
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 C. butter
1/4 C. flour
2 C. half and half
2 C. chicken broth
1/2 lb. broccoli, chopped
1 C. grated carrots
1/4 Tbsp. nutmeg
8 oz. cheese
salt and pepper to taste

Saute chopped onion in 1 tablespoon of butter. Once finished, set aside. In a large pot, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add in flour and whisk (this makes a roux) for 3-5 minutes. Add chicken stock into roux slowly, whisk often to keep the mixture smooth. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Add broccoli, carrots and onion. Cook for 20 minutes. Add in salt and pepper to your liking. Add in cheese slowly, stirring often. Add nutmeg and serve!

Makes about 6 servings.

*I served this with crescents and it was very filling. I also added in a little garlic powder because I didn't have nutmeg and I thought that it might have lacked flavor if I didn't add something in and it was really good. I also didn't take the time to simmer it like the directions said and the soup was fine.