Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup – If you’re craving the warm. And comforting taste of Panera’s famous Broccoli Cheese Soup. This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. Is the perfect solution! With just 30 minutes. And a few simple ingredients. Like broccoli, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. You can recreate this beloved dish at home. This recipe offers a rich, creamy texture. That’s packed with the flavors of fresh vegetables. Making it the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a cozy night in. Or a quick and satisfying meal.
I first attempted to recreate this iconic soup. When my husband. Who’s a big Panera fan. Casually mentioned how much he missed. Having it during our home-cooking weeks. I wanted to surprise him. With a homemade version. That would hit all the right notes of nostalgia. And comfort. The first spoonful brought a smile to his face. And even my picky-eater child. Asked for seconds! Since then, this recipe has become a family favorite. Especially on chilly evenings. When we’re all craving something warm. And hearty.
What makes this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup truly stands out?
This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe stands out. Because it captures the essence of the original. With a homemade touch. The soup is loaded with fresh broccoli and carrots. Giving it a satisfying texture. And a burst of flavor. In every bite. The combination of chicken broth, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Creates a creamy, indulgent base. That’s perfectly seasoned. With just the right amount of spice. It’s a one-pot wonder. That’s quick to make. And sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish. Or a comforting starter.
What You Need To Make This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe?
Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich base. For sautéing the vegetables. Ensuring the soup has a smooth, velvety texture. Without being too salty.
Onions: Diced yellow or white onions. Add a subtle sweetness. That balances the savory elements of the soup.
Shredded Carrots: I prefer using matchstick carrots. That are cut into half-inch pieces. For uniformity and quick cooking.
Broccoli Florets: Chopped into small pieces. To ensure they cook evenly. And blend seamlessly. Into the creamy soup.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor. But feel free to use vegetable broth. For a vegetarian version.
Milk and Heavy Cream: The combination of skim milk. And heavy cream. Provides the perfect creamy consistency. Without being overly rich.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the soup. To that perfect consistency. Where it coats the spoon just right.
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts smoothly into the soup. Adding that signature cheesy flavor. We all love.
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Steps To Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup:
Step 1: Begin by melting the butter. In a large pot. Over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onions, shredded carrots, and chopped broccoli. Sauté these veggies until they’re tender. About 5 minutes. Depending on how finely you’ve chopped them.
Step 2: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, and milk. And heavy cream. Stirring constantly. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Then add the salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to cook. And stir over medium heat. Until the soup begins to thicken. Which should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Once your soup has reached a thick, creamy consistency. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted. And the soup is smooth. And luscious. Ladle into bowls. Serve. And enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheese Soup!
Tip:
For an extra depth of flavor. Try roasting the broccoli florets. Before adding them to the soup. This will bring out their natural sweetness. And add a slight smokiness. That pairs wonderfully. With the creamy, cheesy broth. Also, make sure to use freshly shredded cheese. Rather than pre-shredded. As it melts more smoothly. And enhances the soup’s texture. If you want a smoother consistency. You can also use an immersion blender. To blend the soup. Before adding the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli for this soup?
Yes. You can use frozen broccoli. But make sure to thaw and drain it well. Before adding it to the soup. To avoid excess water thinning out the soup.
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream. With half-and-half. Or even a mix of milk and cornstarch. If you’re looking to reduce calories. Though it may slightly alter the soup’s richness.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply replace the chicken broth. With vegetable broth. And you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of this soup.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- ¼ c unsalted butter
- ½ c finely diced onions yellow or white
- 1 c shredded carrots I used matchstick carrots, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 2 ½ to 3 c small-chopped broccoli florets
- 1 ½ c chicken stock
- 1 c milk I prefer skim or fat-free
- 1 c heavy cream
- ¼ c all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or to taste
- 2 c grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat a large pot. Over medium-high heat. And melt the butter. Toss in the onions, carrots, and broccoli. Cooking them until they begin to soften. Which should take about 5 minutes. But this can vary. Based on how small you've chopped your vegetables.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, milk, and cream. Evenly sprinkle the flour. Over the mixture. Then season with salt and black pepper. And a pinch of red pepper flakes. Continue to stir. And heat the mixture. Over medium heat. Until it starts to thicken. Which should take approximately 10-15 minutes.
- When the soup has thickened. Blend in the cheddar cheese. Stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted. And the soup is smooth. Serve the soup warm. And savor its creamy goodness!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
