Panera Copy-Cat Broccoli Cheese Soup

The temperature  is cool day and there is a feeling of fall in the air - and there is soup on the stove!
Love this recipe adapted from "Damn Delicious".  It is quick to prepare and so yummy.
Kids love it!

Ingredients

1/4 cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1/4 cup flour
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
1 carrot, peeled and cut into thin slices
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Melt butter in large stock pot or Dutch oven. Add garlic, onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 - 5 minutes.
Whisk in flour and stir about one minute. Gradually, add vegetable broth, milk and cream.
Cook, stirring constantly, about 1 - 2 minutes until well combined. Stir in broccoli and carrots.
Bring to boil. Then, reduce heat and simmer until broccoli and carrots are tender - about 8 - 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and pulse with an immersion blender to only partially blend the ingredients.
Return to heat. Stir in cheese, a handful at a time, until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.