panera bread broccoli and cheese soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best panera bread broccoli and cheese soup recipe

I’ve been a fan of Panera Bread’s broccoli and cheese soup for years, and I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you. As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this soup comes together, and it’s always a hit with my family.

The combination of tender broccoli, rich cheese, and creamy texture is simply irresistible. My kids love it when I serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even as a comforting meal when I’m feeling under the weather. Plus, the health benefits of broccoli and cheese are well-documented, making this recipe a guilt-free option for me and my family.

When I’m cooking for a crowd, this soup is always a crowd-pleaser – it’s easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people I’m serving. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to mix things up with a new flavor combination, this Panera Bread-inspired broccoli and cheese soup recipe has got you covered.

Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe

4.5 from 1441 votes

This rich and creamy broccoli and cheese soup is a comforting classic, featuring tender broccoli florets and a blend of sharp cheddar cheese. Top with bacon, croutons or both.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
1 onion diced
2 cloves garlic minced
2 carrots diced
2 stalks celery diced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2Add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4You will see the onions become translucent and the carrots and celery will soften.
5Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
6You will smell the garlic becoming fragrant.
7Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to combine.
8Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
9You will see the flour mixture become pasty and start to brown slightly.
10Gradually add chicken broth and milk to the pot, stirring continuously.
11Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the soup has thickened slightly.
12You will see the soup become slightly thicker and the raw flour taste will cook out.
13Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
14You will see the cheese melt and become smooth.
15Add the broccoli florets to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
16You will see the broccoli turn bright green and become soft.
17Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
18Heat the soup for an additional 2 minutes, until the soup is heated through.
19You will see the soup become smooth and creamy.
20Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
21Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
22You can garnish with additional cheese, bacon or croutons.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For a creamier soup, you can use 2 cups of half and half instead of milk and heavy cream. For a healthier option, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese.

Watch Video Of How Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe Works

This Panera Bread-inspired broccoli and cheese soup recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a comforting meal. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes – want more cheese?

Add some extra grated Parmesan on top! Want less broth?

Simply reduce the amount used in the recipe. And when it comes to serving ideas, don’t be afraid to get creative – try pairing it with some crusty bread or crackers for dipping, or add some crumbled bacon on top for an extra burst of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Q: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

For the best results, use a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese – the sharpness of the cheddar pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of the Parmesan.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: How do I prevent the broccoli from becoming too mushy?

To avoid overcooking the broccoli, add it to the pot in the last 5 minutes of cooking time – this will help preserve its tender texture.

Q: Can I substitute other types of cheese for the cheddar and Parmesan?

While you can experiment with other cheeses, keep in mind that they may change the flavor profile of the soup – if you’re looking for a more authentic taste, stick with cheddar and Parmesan.

Q: Should I use fresh or frozen broccoli?

Either will work well – just be sure to thaw frozen broccoli before using it in the recipe.

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