Delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

When you think of cozy comfort food, nothing quite compares to a warm bowl of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Imagine sitting down with a steaming bowl, the rich and creamy texture embracing your taste buds while the sharp cheddar dances with the subtle sweetness of broccoli. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl that warms not just your belly but your soul.

This soup has become my go-to on chilly evenings, where all I want is something that feels like home. It’s perfect for those lazy Sundays when cooking feels more like an Olympic sport than a fun activity. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak some greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

I remember the first time I made this soup; my friends couldn’t believe it wasn’t from Panera! They devoured it in minutes, leaving me wondering if I should’ve made a double batch.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for the best flavor; they should feel firm and not wilted.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cheese for optimal melting and maximum flavor impact.

• Heavy Cream: Adds the luxurious creaminess that makes this soup feel indulgent and satisfying.

• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to flavors.

• Onion: A small onion contributes sweetness and depth; finely chop it for even cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

• Carrots: Chopped carrots add color and slight sweetness; choose firm ones for better texture.

• Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor without additional saltiness; use it for sautéing vegetables.

• Flour: All-purpose flour thickens the soup, giving it that desirable creamy consistency.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust according to your personal taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Start by prepping your ingredients: Chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces and dice onions and carrots finely. Set everything aside so you’re ready when it’s go-time.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter until bubbly. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, releasing their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic until fragrant.

Add the Vegetables: Toss in chopped carrots and broccoli florets into the pot. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until they start to soften slightly—trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!

Create the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and mix well to coat them evenly. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the flour’s raw taste to disappear—this helps achieve that perfectly creamy texture we all crave.

Pour in the Liquids: Gradually whisk in vegetable or chicken broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring this beautiful mixture to a gentle simmer and watch it thicken—around 10 minutes will do.

Add Creamy Goodness: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream along with grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, creating an irresistibly rich soup that begs for another spoonful.

Enjoy every last drop of your homemade masterpiece! Serve hot with crusty bread on the side or even on its own if you’re feeling adventurous.

Now you’ve got yourself a comforting bowl of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding broccoli and carrots. Next, stir in broth and cheese for a creamy finish. This sequence ensures even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cheddar for a sharp white cheese or add a pinch of nutmeg to elevate the flavor. A dash of hot sauce could bring some excitement too!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding milk if needed for creaminess.

I remember the first time I made this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! It was a chilly evening, and they all left with full bellies and smiles.

FAQ

Can I freeze Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes! Freeze in portions, but avoid adding cream until reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I make this soup healthier?

Substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk or use more vegetables!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This comforting dish features a rich and creamy blend of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli that delights your taste buds and warms your soul. Perfect for chilly nights or lazy Sundays, this easy recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality soup from the comfort of your home.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare vegetables by chopping broccoli, dicing onions, and finely chopping carrots.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add chopped carrots and broccoli to the pot; cook for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables; mix well and cook for another minute to eliminate raw flour flavor.
5. Whisk in broth gradually while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
6. Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and grated cheddar until melted and smooth.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or on its own!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 90mg