Homestyle Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Recipe for Beginners - Beard and Bonnet

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese
• 32 oz (907 g) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 6 cups broccoli, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 3 cups half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 7 tbsps (105 mL) unsalted butter, divided
• 6 tbsps all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (about 1 onion)
• 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil
• 1 ½ tsps minced garlic
• ¾ tsp smoked paprika
• ¾ tsp ground mustard
• 1/8 tsp ground cayenne pepper
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hearty buttered bread or bread bowls (optional for serving)