Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe – Easy Copycat Version at Home
If you’re a fan of creamy, cozy, and delicious soups, then you’ve probably heard of Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup most popular menu items, and it’s easy to see why. It’s thick, cheesy, full of fresh broccoli, and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner. The good news? You don’t have to visit the restaurant every time you crave it. With this easy Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, you can make a delicious homemade version that tastes just like the real thing.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup from scratch using simple ingredients. We’ll also include tips, substitutions, and storage ideas. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup Recipe
- Tastes just like Panera’s famous soup
- Easy to make at home in under 40 minutes
- Made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives
- Can be stored and reheated for meals throughout the week
- Budget-friendly and perfect for feeding the whole family
Ingredients for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here are the simple ingredients you need to make this copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk and cream mixture)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
- 1 cup carrots, grated or thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but adds flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
How to Make Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup at Home
Follow these simple steps to prepare your own Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent.
Make the Roux
Stir in the flour and cook for another 1–2 minutes. This will form a roux (a thick paste) that helps thicken the soup later.
Add Broth and Cream
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and then the half-and-half. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Vegetables
Add the broccoli and carrots to the pot. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. You can also blend 1–2 cups in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
Add Cheese and Seasonings
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Review
Tips for the Best Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Don’t boil after adding cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to separate and make the soup grainy. Always stir it in at the end with the heat off.
- Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little extra broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.
- Add extra flavor: Garlic, mustard powder, or a splash of hot sauce can boost flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli, real cream, and sharp cheddar will give you the best results.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious broccoli cheddar soup is perfect on its own or served with:
- Crusty bread or a sourdough bowl (just like Panera)
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Crackers or garlic bread
- Simple green salad on the side
Storage and Reheating
You can store this Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:
- Warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often
- Or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between
Freezing Tip: This soup can be frozen, but dairy-based soups may separate slightly when reheated. For better texture, freeze before adding the cheese, then stir it in when reheating.
FAQs About Panera Cheddar Broccoli Soup
Final Thoughts
Making Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is easier than you think. With basic ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this creamy, cheesy soup anytime you like. It’s a great choice for cozy dinners, lunch with friends, or even meal prep for the week
