Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup

unsalted butter

1/2 cup

diced onions (yellow or white)

1 cup

shredded carrots (I used matchsticks that I cut into half inch pieces)

2 cups

broccoli florets, chopped small

1 1/2 cups

chicken broth

1 cup

milk (I use skim/fat free)

1 cup

heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup

all-purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt

1/2 tsp

black pepper

crushed red pepper flakes (or more as desired)

2 cups

shredded cheddar cheese