Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Welcome, my fellow comfort-food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a bowl of warm, cheesy, broccoli-packed goodness that tastes just like it came straight from Panera—only better, because you made it yourself. Trust me, you’re going to love this one; it’s creamy, cozy, and the kind of dish that wraps around your taste buds like a soft, savory blanket. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re craving something that feels like a hug in a bowl, this recipe is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight but fancy enough to impress when friends drop by. So grab your apron, a wooden spoon, and let’s get cozy in the kitchen!

Recipe Origin:
Inspired by the iconic Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, this homemade version brings the creamy, cheesy magic to your kitchen without the wait in line. It’s a comforting American classic that’s perfect for soup nights, lunchboxes, or anytime you need a little cheesy warmth.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater (unless using pre-shredded cheese)
• Ladle for serving
• Bowls for presentation

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Why You’ll Love Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:

• Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor. Frozen works in a pinch but will be softer.
• Shred your cheese from a block if possible; pre-shredded cheese sometimes has anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
• Don’t rush the roux (butter + flour base); cooking it for just a minute or two ensures your soup thickens without a floury taste.
• Stir frequently when adding milk to prevent lumps and achieve that silky smooth texture.

Ingredients in Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here’s the magic of this soup—it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients, but the flavors come together to create something truly irresistible:

Yellow Onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that melts into the soup, creating depth and flavor.

Broccoli: The star veggie here. Chopped fresh broccoli gives the soup that classic texture and bursts of green color.

Matchstick Carrots: Tiny but mighty, they add a subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast that makes every spoonful pop.

Celery: Brings a gentle, savory undertone that complements the sweetness of the onions and carrots.

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors. Don’t be shy; they make a world of difference.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The liquid foundation of the soup. Rich and flavorful, it’s what makes every bite cozy and comforting.

Butter: Melts into the roux to add richness and silkiness. Trust me, this is where the soup starts to feel luxurious.

Flour: Works hand-in-hand with butter to thicken the soup. A simple trick for that creamy consistency you crave.

Milk: Creamy and luscious, it softens the intensity of the cheddar and blends all the flavors together.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The showstopper! This cheese gives the soup its iconic tangy, creamy, melty, cheesy goodness.

Scallions (Optional Garnish): A fresh, slightly sharp finish that brightens each spoonful.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Place your saucepan or Dutch oven on medium heat. This ensures even cooking and gives your soup that perfect, velvety texture.

Sauté Vegetables: Start by melting butter in the pan. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point, so don’t be surprised if you sneak a little taste!

Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the softened veggies and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the soup and eliminates any raw flour taste.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Slowly pour in chicken or vegetable broth, whisking to combine with the roux. Add salt and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer to allow flavors to meld.

Cook the Broccoli: Add chopped broccoli to the simmering soup. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender but still vibrant.

Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree until desired consistency. You can also leave it chunky for more texture.

Add Milk and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in milk. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Avoid high heat here to prevent the cheese from clumping.

Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with scallions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately. Perfect alongside warm crusty bread or a light salad.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: Approximately 320 (depending on cheese and milk used)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the soup’s rich flavors.

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of cheesy goodness. A baguette or garlic bread works perfectly.

Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to complement the flavor profile.

Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, add color and nutrients to the meal.

As a Standalone: Sometimes, this soup is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Presentation matters too! Serving in a beautifully arranged bowl or with a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prepare the vegetables and measure ingredients ahead of time to streamline cooking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
• This soup freezes beautifully; just thaw overnight and reheat slowly to preserve texture.

Variations to Try:

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or garlic powder for a flavor twist.
• Dairy-Free: Swap milk and cheese for plant-based alternatives while maintaining the creamy consistency.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in cauliflower, peas, or bell peppers for more variety and nutrition.

Additional Tips:

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables the night before and store in the fridge.
• Double the Batch: Freezing one batch ensures a comforting meal is always ready.
• Adjust Thickness: Use more or less milk/broth to create your preferred consistency.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute cheddar cheese with another type?
A1: Absolutely! Gruyere or Monterey Jack work well for a different flavor profile.

Q2: Can I make this soup vegan?
A2: Yes! Use vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and dairy-free cheese. It’s just as comforting.

Q3: Can I freeze the soup?
A3: Yes! Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A4: Definitely. Make the soup, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat gently when ready to serve.

Q5: How do I reheat without curdling the cheese?
A5: Reheat slowly over low heat and stir frequently. Add a splash of milk if it seems too thick.

Q6: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A6: Yes, but it will be softer and may slightly change the texture. Fresh is best for a vibrant bite.

Q7: Can I make it spicier?
A7: Absolutely! Add cayenne, paprika, or even a little hot sauce to taste.

Q8: Can I thicken the soup more?
A8: Add more flour in the roux stage or simmer a bit longer to reduce liquid.

Q9: Can I make it gluten-free?
A9: Yes! Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour for the roux.

Q10: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A10: 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently to preserve creaminess.

Conclusion
There you have it—a creamy, cheesy, veggie-packed bowl of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to become a staple in your home. It’s easy, comforting, versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night, impressing friends, or just treating yourself, this soup hits all the right notes. So grab your ladle, dig in, and savor every melty, cheesy, broccoli-filled bite—you earned it!

Make a comforting, copycat version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup in your kitchen: