panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe

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

Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a classic that my family has loved for years. It’s a hearty, comforting soup packed with tender broccoli florets and a rich, creamy cheddar base.

The soup has a velvety texture and a mild cheddar flavor that my kids enjoy, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option. I love how this soup can be a complete meal on its own, especially on those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying.

The combination of broccoli and cheddar cheese provides a good balance of nutrients, including vitamin C, calcium, and protein. This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to include additional vegetables or spices to suit your family’s preferences.

It’s a great way to introduce kids to eating their vegetables. My husband and I appreciate that it’s a healthier option compared to many other comfort foods.

The key to making this soup at home is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to sauté the vegetables properly. This ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, giving you a soup that tastes just like the original.

It is especially good for large family gatherings and holidays.

Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

4.9 from 1873 votes

A creamy and comforting soup packed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. This recipe replicates the classic Panera Bread flavor at home.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion, carrots, and minced garlic.
3Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, stirring occasionally.
4Add the flour to the pot and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
5This will thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.
6Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
7Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8Add the milk, broccoli florets, and the seasonings salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
9Stir well to combine.
10Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
11You should be able to easily pierce the broccoli with a fork.
12Using a blender or an immersion blender, carefully blend about half of the soup until smooth.
13This will give the soup a creamier texture.
14Return the blended soup to the pot and stir well.
15Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
16If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
17Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
18Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Blender or immersion blender

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tip: For a healthier option, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese. To make it vegetarian, ensure your vegetable broth is vegetable-based. You can also add cooked chicken or bacon for added protein and flavor.

This Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is a family favorite and a great addition to any meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit different dietary needs.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for busy families. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for serving to guests during family gatherings. It works well as a starter or a light meal and everyone loves it, even kids.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the soup. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may release more water, so you might need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

2. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will ensure that the soup remains creamy and thick, without the gluten.

3. Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

4. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely. You can add other vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or bell peppers to make the soup even more nutritious and flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you add.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?

If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe. This will give it a nice kick without overpowering the cheddar flavor.

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