Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Homemade Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• 5 cups broccoli florets (if you have a little more or a little less that is fine)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups milk or 1/2 & 1/2 (1/2 & 1/2 does taste better but I usually use milk)
• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 – 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
• bacon, cooked and chopped (optional)

Steam broccoli until tender, about six minutes. Chop finely. I do mine in the food processor because we like it really chopped up and it is quicker. Set aside. In a large saucepan combine broth and milk. Slowly whisk in flour. Cook over med to med high heat stirring. Cook until it starts to thicken but not too thick. I usually do it until it just starts to boil. Add chopped broccoli. Reduce heat to med low. Continue to cook about 5 minutes. Add cheese stir until cheese melts. Serve. If using bacon sprinkle each bowl with a little.