"Thick, cheesy and loaded with broccoli! This Better Than Panera Broccoli soup is a delicious homemade version of a restaurant favorite...."
INGREDIENTS
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5 tbsp butter, divided
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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1 leek (white and light green part only), quartered lengthwise and sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 c. or 1 (32 oz.) box, low-sodium chicken broth
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1 tsp. salt
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1/2 tsp. garlic powder
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1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
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1/4 tsp. paprika
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2 carrots, peeled, julienned, and cut into 1-inch strips
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1/4 c. all-purpose flour
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2 1/2 c. milk
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1 c. half & half or heavy cream
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3 medium heads broccoli, cut into small florets
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2 c. (8 oz. block) grated medium or sharp cheddar cheese