I’ve been making Panera’s Cheese Broccoli Soup recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it, and it’s easy to make in large quantities for family gatherings or potlucks. The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy, packed with broccoli, carrots, and a blend of cheeses.
I’ve made some adjustments to the original recipe to make it even more flavorful and easier to prepare. The soup is creamy, yet still light and refreshing, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. I like to serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
My family and I have enjoyed this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a healthy option, this Panera Cheese Broccoli Soup recipe is a winner. I’ve also noticed that the soup freezes beautifully, so I can make a batch and store it for later use.
It’s become a go-to recipe for me when I need something easy and delicious. Over time, I’ve tweaked the original recipe to suit my family’s tastes, but the core ingredients remain the same. The combination of broccoli, carrots, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone loves.
This soup is also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course or use it as a side dish for your favorite meals. My kids ask for this soup all the time, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s so easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Panera Cheese Broccoli Soup
4.5 from 526 votes
A creamy and comforting soup filled with tender broccoli and a rich cheesy base. This Panera copycat recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
2Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
5Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.
6Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and half and half.
7Stir well to combine.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
9Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the broccoli is very tender.
10Remove the pot from the heat.
11Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
12If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
13Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
14Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
15Stir well to combine.
16Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
17Return the pot to medium heat and cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
Tips: If you prefer a smoother soup, blend it longer or use a regular blender. For a healthier option, use low-fat milk and half and half.
Watch Video Of How Panera Cheese Broccoli Soup Works
I always recommend this soup for any occasion, and it’s a great choice for family gatherings. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a large group of people.
It’s also a great way to use up some of the vegetables that you have on hand. It’s a great way to feed a large group of people, and it is also a great way to use up some of the vegetables that you have on hand.
This soup is perfect for a cold winter day, and it’s also great for a quick and easy dinner any time of year. The soup is made with a creamy base of milk and cheese, and it is packed with vegetables.
It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, and it is also low in calories and fat. The soup is also high in protein, which makes it a great option for a meal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Cheese Broccoli Soup
Q: What is the origin of Panera’s Cheese Broccoli Soup?
A: Panera Bread is an American chain of bakery-cafes that originated in Minneapolis in 1981. They are known for their high-quality bread and delicious soups, including the Cheese Broccoli Soup recipe we’re discussing today.
Q: Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this soup is vegetarian-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients other than cheese.
Q: Can I customize this recipe with different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan to create your own unique flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftover soup?
A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this soup without broccoli?
A: While broccoli is a key ingredient in this recipe, you can omit it if you’re not a fan or if you’re looking for a low-carb option – simply substitute with more carrots or other vegetables of your choice.
Q: Is this soup suitable for reheating?
A: Yes, this soup reheat beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop – just be sure to stir well after reheating.
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