When the chill of winter sets in and the warmth of a cozy kitchen beckons, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of homemade soup to brighten the day. That’s when I discovered Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a creamy, cheesy delight that captures the essence of comfort food. This recipe has been a game-changer for me, transforming dreary afternoons into tasty little celebrations with just a few simple ingredients.
After a long week of the usual fast food grind, I craved something that both nourished my body and delighted my senses. This soup is rich, filling, and bursting with flavor, yet surprisingly easy to whip up in about 25 minutes. It balances the earthiness of fresh broccoli and carrots with sharp cheddar cheese, resulting in a flavor profile that’s nothing short of heavenly.
So grab your Dutch oven, and let’s create a bowl of warmth that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply want to treat yourself on a chilly evening, this broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect answer.
Why is Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup a Must-Try?
Creamy, Comforting Goodness: This soup offers a luscious blend of textures that warms your soul.
Quick to Make: In just 25 minutes, you can savor a delightful homemade dish.
Healthier Alternative: Ditch the fast food for fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Flavor Explosion: The sharp cheddar paired with earthy vegetables creates a taste that’s utterly irresistible.
Impressive Presentation: Serve with crusty bread for a visual and flavorful feast that will wow your family and friends.
Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy gathering, this recipe is your go-to for a quick, delicious meal!
Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Butter – adds richness and depth to the flavor of the soup.
- Chopped onion – contributes a sweet and savory aroma that enhances overall taste.
- Flour – helps thicken the soup for that perfect creamy consistency.
- Half-and-half cream – creates a luxuriously smooth texture that makes the soup irresistible.
- Low-sodium chicken stock – a flavorful base that supports the other ingredients without overwhelming them.
For the Vegetables
- Broccoli – packed with vitamins, it adds a fresh green crunch that’s essential to this soup.
- Carrot – the julienned carrots provide a delightful sweetness and vibrant color.
For Extra Flavor
- Nutmeg (optional) – a pinch gives a warm, nutty undertone, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Grated sharp cheddar cheese – the star of the show! It melts beautifully, creating that classic cheesy experience.
- Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning to taste, ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re on your way to crafting a savory, homemade bowl of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup that will amaze family and friends alike!
How to Make Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup
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Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This brings out that beautiful sweetness in the onion.
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Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes. This forms a roux that will thicken your soup to perfection!
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Whisk in the half-and-half cream and low-sodium chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to simmer.
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Add the chopped broccoli and julienned carrot, then cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and bright green.
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Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. For a creamier texture, blend about 1 cup of the soup in a blender, then stir it back into the pot.
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Return the soup to low heat and add the grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring gently until it’s completely melted. If desired, add a pinch of nutmeg for that comforting warmth.
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Serve your beautiful soup in bowls with crusty bread on the side, and prepare for smiles around the table!
Optional: Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Enjoy your creamy Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup!
What to Serve with Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Warm up your mealtime with delightful pairings that accentuate the creamy comfort of this beloved soup.
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Crusty Bread: A must-have side! Its crunchy exterior contrasts perfectly with the smooth soup, making each spoonful a joy.
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Garden Salad: Light and refreshing, a crisp salad of mixed greens adds a healthy touch and balances the richness of the soup.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these add a flavor explosion that’s perfect for dipping into the cheesy goodness. They’re always a crowd-pleaser!
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Apple Slices with Cheese: The crispness of fresh apples paired with cheese gives a refreshing contrast, making for a delightful crunchy snack or side.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Elevate your soup experience with a melty, crispy sandwich. The combined flavors create a nostalgic, comforting meal.
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Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink adds a refreshing element that cleanses the palate between bites and enhances the meal’s enjoyment.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! Soft, warm cookies provide a satisfying finish to a cozy meal, evoking comfort in every bite.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your meal planning! You can chop the broccoli and carrots up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the fridge to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base—everything up to adding the cheese—up to 24 hours ahead. Before serving, gently reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, then stir in the grated cheddar until melted. By prepping in advance, you save time during busy weeknights while still enjoying a homemade meal that’s just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli and carrots for better flavor and texture. Frozen vegetables can become mushy.
- Cheese Quality: Opt for high-quality sharp cheddar; it melts beautifully and enhances the creamy taste of the soup.
- Perfect Roux: Ensure you cook the flour long enough to remove the raw taste, about 1-2 minutes is ideal.
- Don’t Rush: Allow the soup to simmer gently. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich broth reminiscent of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, slowly add more chicken stock until you reach your desired texture.
- Garnish Smartly: Top with a sprinkle of bacon bits or croutons for added flavor and crunch!
Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Variations
Feel free to make this cozy soup your own by incorporating some fun twists and substitutes!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for half-and-half and use dairy-free cheese for a creamy vegan version.
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach or kale for a pop of color and extra nutrients, kale adds a nice chewiness!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to heat things up and tantalize your taste buds.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chicken or turkey for added protein, turning your soup into a hearty meal.
- Gourmet Touch: Add a splash of white wine before simmering for depth and sophistication that elevates your soup.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary can bring a beautiful aromatic quality, enhancing the overall flavor profile delightfully.
- Texture Twist: For a chunky version, hold back some of the vegetables before blending; it adds fun bites for those who love texture!
- Crispy Topping: Top with crispy bacon bits or crunchy fried onions for a delightful contrast to the creamy soup!
With all these variations, you’re sure to create an irresistible dish that suits your taste and the occasion. Enjoy the adventure!
Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best broccoli for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing broccoli, look for bright green florets without dark spots or yellowing, as these are signs of over-ripeness. The stalks should be firm and not limp. Fresh is best for that ideal crunchy texture!
How should I store leftover Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
You can store your delicious soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep the consistency smooth and creamy.
Can I freeze Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Very! To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy texture.
What can I do if my soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If your soup is thicker than you’d like, you can gently whisk in more chicken stock or half-and-half until you achieve your desired consistency. Just be sure to reheat it slowly to maintain that lovely cheesy flavor.
Is this soup safe for my pet?
No, while some ingredients are safe for pets, cheeses and seasoned dishes can upset their stomachs. It’s always best to keep this flavorful Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup to yourself to ensure your furry friends stay healthy!
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making this soup?
If your soup doesn’t seem creamy enough, double-check that you whisked the roux well and incorporated the cheese fully at the end. If you find the flavors are a bit bland, just add a pinch more salt and pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice to elevate the taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Homemade Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup That Wows Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes.
- Whisk in the half-and-half cream and low-sodium chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the chopped broccoli and julienned carrot, then cook over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- For a creamier texture, blend about 1 cup of the soup in a blender, then stir it back into the pot.
- Return the soup to low heat and add the grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring gently until it's completely melted.
- Serve your beautiful soup in bowls with crusty bread on the side.