Just-Like-Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup

I found a "copy cat" version of Panera's Broccoli Cheddar soup, made a slight modification and it's delish! We just had it for dinner tonight and I couldn't wait to share it!

3 cups broccoli florets (fresh makes a huge difference over frozen!)
4 cups chicken broth
1 c half and half
1/2 c all purpose flour
8oz package of mild or sharp cheddar (depending on what you like)
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/3 c diced onion (I used sweet)
pinch ground black pepper

steam broccoli for about 6 min. (you don't want it super tender because it will continue to cook for 30 min in the soup) cut into small chunks.
Put chicken broth and half and half in a large saucepan. Whisk in the flour, then add the remaining ingredients, including the broccoli. Cook over medium heat until it starts to bubble. Simmer over med/med low heat for
30 minutes until soup is thick, Stirring occasionally.

Seriously, you must try it. It's
AH-MAZING!!!