Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Panera Copycat Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, (finely chopped (1 heaping cup))
• 3 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 1 cup shredded carrots ((optional))
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• ½ lb broccoli florets, (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 4 cups))
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups (8 oz) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, (plus more for serving if desired)