Everyone loves eating at Applebee’s, Chili’s, McDonalds, T.G.I. Friday’s and Red Lobster. Many have a desire to cook these famous foods at home. When it comes to copycat recipes, some call it a hobby, some call it a science. Whatever you call it, the truth is, thousands of home cooks are having fun and saving time by recreating their favorite restaurant dishes in their home kitchen. Here is a great copycat recipe that tastes just like Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheese Soup. I serve mine in bread bowls just like at Panera. If you are interested in more great copycat recipes, pick up a copy of America’s Secret Recipes.

Serves/Makes: 4
Ready In: 30-60 minutes

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup melted butter
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 pound fresh broccoli
1 cup carrots, julienned
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
salt & pepper, to taste
8 ounces grated sharp cheddar

Directions:
Saute onion in butter. Set aside.
Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for about 4 minutes. Be sure to stir frequently.
Slowly add the half-and-half, continue stirring.
Add the chicken stock whisking all the time.
Simmer for 20 minutes.

Add the broccoli, carrots and onions. Cook over low heat until the veggies are tender, about 20 minutes.
Add salt and pepper.
By now the soup should be thickened.
Pour in batches into blender and puree.
Return the puree to the pot and place over low heat, add the grated cheese; stir until well blended.
Stir in the nutmeg.
Serve.

Let me know how much you love this recipe!