broccoli cheddar soup panera recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
broccoli cheddar soup panera recipe
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The Best broccoli cheddar soup panera recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of those comforting recipes that never fails to hit the spot. As a busy mom, I’ve made it countless times for my family, and it’s always a winner. The best part?

It’s ridiculously easy to make. I mean, we’re talking 10-minute prep time, folks. That’s right, you can have this delicious soup on the table in no time.

And let me tell you, it’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you need something warm and comforting to fill your belly. But what really sets this recipe apart is the depth of flavor it packs. It’s not just broccoli and cheddar – no way.

This soup has a rich, velvety texture that will leave you wondering if you’re eating a meal from a fancy restaurant or just something simple from home. And the best part? It’s made with wholesome ingredients that are good for your body and soul.

My kids adore this soup, and I can see why – who wouldn’t want a big bowl of creamy goodness to fuel their active lives? So if you’re looking for a recipe that will become a staple in your household, look no further than this Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

4.6 from 841 votes

A rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup inspired by Panera Bread. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 cup half-and-half
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Garnish

additional shredded cheddar cheese
chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden.
5Gradually pour in the chicken broth, milk, and half-and-half, stirring continuously to combine.
6Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
7Add the broccoli florets to the pot and let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
8Remove the pot from the heat.
9Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until smooth.
10This will give the soup a creamy texture while leaving some broccoli chunks for texture.
11Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
12Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
13Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
14Return the pot to low heat and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
15This will allow the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Immersion blender
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Works

This Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a tasty meal – it’s also an excellent choice for meal prep or family gatherings. The best part?

It freezes beautifully, so feel free to whip up a batch and store it in the freezer for later use. When reheating, be sure to stir constantly and add some extra milk or cream if needed – trust me, it makes all the difference!

And don’t forget about serving ideas: serve with crusty bread or croutons for added crunch.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Q1: What is the origin of this broccoli cheddar soup recipe?

This broccoli cheddar soup recipe is inspired by Panera Bread’s version, which has been a fan favorite for years. While there’s no one ‘original’ recipe out there, we’ve taken some creative liberties to make it our own.

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