Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Soup

Ingredients

- 6 servings +

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, for rich roux
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour, to thicken soup
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken bone broth, warmed
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half or whole milk, for creamy body
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 1 cup matchstick carrots, or coarsely grated carrots
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg and Dijon mustard, secret flavor enhancers
• 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded from block, divided
• ½ cup toasted panko breadcrumbs, for crunchy topping
• 1 tsp kosher salt and black pepper, to taste