I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Panera Broccoli Soup recipe. This creamy, comforting soup is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.
I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the broccoli and is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies.
I love serving this soup at family gatherings or as a quick weeknight dinner. The kids adore it, and it’s even a great way to get them to eat their greens.
My husband raves about the flavor, and I must say, I agree with him – it’s absolutely delicious! The secret ingredient?
A hint of garlic that adds depth without overpowering the other flavors. And don’t even get me started on the aroma – it fills the entire house with a warm, inviting scent that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Panera Broccoli Soup
4.6 from 900 votes
A creamy and comforting broccoli soup inspired by Panera Bread. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, packed with vegetables and a rich, cheesy flavor.
1In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4Add the broccoli florets to the pot.
5Stir well to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
7Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to coat evenly.
8Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
9Gradually pour in the vegetable broth and milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
10Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
11Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the flavors have melded together.
12Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
13Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
14If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches until smooth.
15Return the blended soup to the pot.
16Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
17Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
18Stir well to combine.
19Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
20If you prefer a thinner soup, add more milk or broth.
21For a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.
22Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional cheese or chopped broccoli if desired.
Tips: For a smoother soup, blend until very smooth. For a chunkier soup, blend only partially or leave some broccoli pieces whole. You can also add cooked chicken or potatoes to make it a heartier meal.
Watch Video Of How Panera Broccoli Soup Works
This Panera Broccoli Soup recipe is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes.
Plus, it freezes well, so you can make a big batch and have it on hand for a quick and easy meal later in the week. Serve it with some crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
You can even add some chopped green onions or shredded cheese on top for extra flavor. It’s a great dish for family gatherings and holidays.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Broccoli Soup
1. What is the origin of Panera Broccoli Soup?
Panera Broccoli Soup is a popular menu item at Panera Bread restaurants, but its exact origin is unclear. However, it’s believed to have been created by one of Panera’s chefs as a healthier alternative to traditional soups.
2. Can I customize this recipe to suit my taste?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this recipe is that you can adjust the level of garlic to your liking. If you prefer a stronger flavor, simply add more garlic or use roasted garlic for an extra depth of flavor.
3. Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be easily adapted for vegans by substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative.
4. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
5. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.
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