As a treat, every once in awhile, the girls and I head out to Panera’s for a bowl of broccoli and cheese soup.

I’ve tried several recipes, none of them were ever quite what we wanted. I have no idea where Courtney happened upon this recipe, but it’s one of the closer to Panera’s that I’ve tried.

I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!!

• 6T butter
• 2 chopped onions
• 1/2c all purpose flour
• 2 containers (64 ounces) chicken broth
• 28 oz. frozen, chopped broccoli
• 2c milk
• 1T salt
• 1T pepper
• 1-8 oz package cream cheese, melted
• 1-8 oz package shredded cheddar cheese

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add onions and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add the flour, stirring well to coat the onions.

Add broth; cook and stir for 2-5 minutes (may take longer) until thick and creamy.

Add the broccoli, reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Add milk, salt, and pepper, stirring well to mix. Cook for 2 minutes, until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted and smooth.

Enjoy!!