Broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting classic that many people adore. This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup captures that familiar creamy texture and rich flavor, all made right in your kitchen. With fresh veggies and a cheesy base, it’s a dish that warms you up on chilly days and satisfies your cravings for something hearty yet simple. Plus, making this delicious soup from scratch gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust it to your taste!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 390
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
Why Make This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Why go out when you can enjoy the same yummy soup from the comfort of your own home? This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with delicious flavors. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients are often items you already have in your kitchen. The vibrant green broccoli, bright orange carrots, and luscious cheddar come together to create an appealing bowl full of warmth. Plus, you can customize it to suit your dietary needs by using low-fat cheese or a non-dairy cream substitute!
How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Step 2: Mixing
Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
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Step 3: Cooking
Add the carrots and broccoli, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
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Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
How to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serve this delightful soup in bowls with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of extra cheddar on top adds a nice finishing touch. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. You can also serve it in bread bowls for a fun twist!
How to Store Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To store your leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth if the soup is too thick after thawing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Make sure to chop the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or your favorite herbs like thyme or bay leaf as it simmers.
- For a smooth texture, consider using an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup before adding the cheese and cream.
Delicious Variations
- Add Protein: Include diced cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier soup.
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with sharp or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
- Non-Dairy Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well, but you may want to adjust the cooking time slightly since it’s pre-cooked. -
How can I make this soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, consider adding a cornstarch slurry or purée part of the soup with an immersion blender. -
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it a great meal to prepare ahead of time. -
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh garden salad compliment this soup beautifully. -
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the vegetable broth is gluten-free, this soup is a safe choice for those avoiding gluten.
Conclusion
Making a comforting bowl of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved favorite anytime. It’s simple, delicious, and customizable to fit your taste! Whether you’re serving it up on a cold day or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe is sure to delight. So gather your ingredients and make this delicious soup today—you won’t regret it!
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Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and creamy broccoli cheddar soup that captures the rich flavors of the classic dish from Panera.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add the carrots and broccoli, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
For a smooth texture, consider using an immersion blender to purée a portion of the soup. This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
