Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup. Imagine indulging in a creamy, velvety soup, bursting with fresh broccoli and a cheesy goodness that warms you from the inside out. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl! This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about capturing the essence of cozy family gatherings shared over hearty meals. Did you know that soup has been a staple in homes for centuries? It has a way of bringing people together, especially on chilly winter evenings. If you love vibrant flavors that make you feel at home, this soup is going to become your new favorite, competing with another popular blog recipe that showcases creamy potato soup. Why venture out to eat when you can create this at home?

What is Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup?

So, what’s in a name? “Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup” sounds fancy, but really, it’s just your simple way of saying, “This soup is so good you’ll think it came from a restaurant!” And you know what they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” This colorful bowl of green goodness loaded with cheese might just have that effect! Picture sharing this soup with family during a cool evening while recounting funny stories over a steaming bowl of vibrant green broccoli. Who knew that a simple soup could hold such connection? Ready to dive into this delicious adventure? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

There are three irresistible reasons you’ll adore this Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup. First, it makes for the perfect main dish that warms the belly without weighing you down—ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in! Next, making this at home saves you a good chunk of change compared to dining out, and we all love a little extra cash in our pockets, right? Finally, the soup is exceptionally customizable! Whether you want to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top or add some crunchy croutons, each bowl becomes uniquely yours. Picture this: creamy, cheesy broccoli soup versus a classic tomato soup. The two are worlds apart, and trust me, once you try this broccoli masterpiece, you’ll be a permanent fan!

How to Make Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

Quick Overview

Making this Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup is as easy as it is satisfying! Not only is it quick to whip up, but the result is a rich and flavorful experience that will delight your taste buds. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, you can have a nourishing bowl of heaven on your table in no time!

Key Ingredients for Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful soup:

• 2 tablespoons butter: For a rich base
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings out the flavors
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets: The star of the dish
• 3 cups vegetable broth: A great foundation
• 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk: For creaminess
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty goodness
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): If you like a thicker soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the Broccoli: Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
3. Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
4. Blend the Mixture: Carefully use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have one, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches—be cautious of the hot liquid!
5. Mix in Dairy: Lower the heat and stir in the half-and-half (or whole milk) slowly.
6. Cheesy Goodness: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into the soup, resulting in that creamy, dreamy texture.
7. Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry and add it to the soup, stirring well.
8. Season: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve It Up: Ladle into bowls, and enjoy!

Top Tips for Perfecting Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

• Substitutions: Don’t have cheddar cheese? Feel free to use gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor twist. You could even experiment with plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option!
• Timing: Keep an eye on the broccoli to avoid overcooking. You want it tender but still vibrant for that pop of color and taste!
• Avoiding Mistakes: Stir continuously when adding cheese to prevent it from clumping. Nobody wants to scoop out chunks of cheese instead of a creamy soup!

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, using a stovetop is best for maintaining that lovely creamy texture. If reheating directly in the microwave, do it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth.

Now that you’re well-versed in making this delicious Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup, gather your ingredients and start cooking! Your family will be singing your praises after the first spoonful. Happy cooking!

Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

A comforting and creamy soup bursting with fresh broccoli and cheesy goodness, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter For a rich base
• 1 small onion, chopped Adds sweetness
• 2 cloves garlic, minced Brings out the flavors
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets The star of the dish
• 3 cups vegetable broth A great foundation
• 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk For creaminess
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese The gooey, melty goodness
• Salt to taste salt For seasoning
• Pepper to taste pepper For seasoning
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) If you like a thicker soup

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Toss in the broccoli florets and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
4. Add the vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
5. Carefully use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have one, transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches—be cautious of the hot liquid!
6. Lower the heat and stir in the half-and-half (or whole milk) slowly.
7. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until it melts into the soup, resulting in that creamy, dreamy texture.
8. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry and add it to the soup, stirring well.
9. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
10. Ladle into bowls, and enjoy!

Notes

For substitutions, feel free to use gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor twist. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.