Broccoli Cheese Soup

1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 medium chopped onion
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
2 cups chicken stock (2 cups water 4 tsp knorr chicken boullion)
2-3 cups frozen broccoli- chopped or blended
1 cup carrot, finely grated
8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
salt and pepper

Directions:
Sauté onion in butter. Set aside.
Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and add the half & half.
Add the chicken stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the broccoli, carrots and onions. Cook over low heat 10-20 minutes.
Add salt and pepper to taste. Can be puréed in a blender. Return to heat and add cheese.


adapted from: http://www.food.com/recipe/panera-broccoli-cheese-soup-150384