Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When the chilly weather rolls in, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of creamy, comforting soup. This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is just what you need to cozy up during those brisk days! Imagine velvety cheese mingling with tender broccoli, all combined in a rich, flavorful broth. Did you know that broccoli cheddar soup was one of the most popular orders at Panera? It’s true! Now, you can whip it up right in your own kitchen in just about 30 minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress family or treat yourself, this soup is family-friendly and a cinch to make. It’s even easier to whip up than its cousin, homemade chicken noodle soup. So grab a spoon, let’s dive into this delicious recipe; you won’t regret it!

What is Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Have you ever wondered why it’s called Broccoli Cheddar Soup? The answer is delightfully simple: it highlights the star ingredients! Broccoli’s bright green color paired with the deep orange of cheddar cheese genuinely makes a bowl eye-catching—and mouth-watering! It’s like a show featuring vegetables and cheese! Legend has it that this dish first gained popularity in the cozy cafes across New England, bringing happiness to all who tasted it. They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and with this delicious bowl of soup, you might win over a few hearts! So, why not gather your ingredients, and you could say goodbye to those long lines at Panera!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a true showstopper for three main reasons. First, the creamy texture achieved by the combination of butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated cheese creates a flavor explosion that dances on your tastebuds! Second, making it at home saves you money; you can enjoy as much as you want without feeling guilty about your wallet! Finally, the topping options are endless. Whether you prefer a sprinkle of extra cheddar, crispy croutons, or a drizzle of hot sauce, you can elevate your bowl to a whole new level! If you enjoy comfort food like creamy tomato soup, you’ll absolutely love this recipe too. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a hearty meal that everyone will love!

How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Quick Overview

Making this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is surprisingly easy, delicious, and satisfying! With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a go-to dish in your household. You’ll be delighted to know that it only takes around 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting.

Key Ingredients for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crusty bread for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the carrots and broccoli, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

2. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly toasted.

3. Add Broth: Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

4. Creamy Base: Once the broccoli is tender, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer.

5. Cheesy Goodness: Remove the pot from heat and blend using an immersion blender until the soup reaches your desired consistency. Then, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

6. Season and Serve: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with more cheese and crusty bread on the side if desired!

What to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup With

This delightful soup pairs wonderfully with various dishes! For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or grilled cheese sandwiches—nothing beats the classic comfort of cheese! Pairing this soup with a light, refreshing salad can provide a perfect contrast to the creamy soup, balance the meal, and make it feel indulgent yet wholesome.

Top Tips for Perfecting Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup, try these tips:

• Cheese Choice: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-packaged cheese can contain anti-caking agents that prevent a smooth consistency.
• Roux Adjustment: If you’d like a thicker soup, allow the roux to cook longer or add additional flour. However, be careful not to make it too thick!
• Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to get creative with other veggies—cauliflower, zucchini, or even spinach can add extra nutrition and flavor!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it—just be aware that cream-based soups may slightly alter in texture when thawed. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently, and consider adding a splash of broth to bring it back to life!

Now that you’re armed with all the tips and knowledge, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy the delicious flavors of this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, and watch as it becomes a beloved dish in your home. Happy cooking!

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A creamy and comforting soup featuring broccoli and cheddar cheese, perfect for chilly weather.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Vegetables

• 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped onion

Base

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Cheese

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese plus extra for serving

Seasoning

• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper

Optional

• to serve crusty bread for dipping

Method

 

Preparation

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the carrots and broccoli, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.

Make the Roux

1. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine.
2. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly toasted.

Add Broth

1. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

Creamy Base

1. Once the broccoli is tender, stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Cheesy Goodness

1. Remove the pot from heat and blend using an immersion blender until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
2. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Season and Serve

1. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with more cheese and crusty bread on the side if desired.

Notes

To elevate your soup, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese and consider adding other vegetables. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.