Irresistible Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Easy Copycat

 

Hey there, friend! If you’re anything like me, autumn and winter bring out a craving for cozy, comforting meals that warm you from the inside out. There’s just something about a steaming bowl of soup that feels like a big, warm hug on a chilly day. I remember those rainy afternoons spent at Panera, savoring their luscious Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the kind that makes the world feel a little brighter. Well, I decided it was time to recreate that magic in my own kitchen! So, let me introduce you to my easy copycat version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup – it’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious.

This Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner, and it’s budget-friendly too! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and so will your family. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
• Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
• Creamy and full of flavor, it’s comfort food at its finest!
• Budget-friendly and makes great leftovers.

Ingredients

Gather these goodies to whip up this delightful soup:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth (your choice!)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups shredded carrots (about 2 medium-sized carrots)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich, velvety texture)
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (the sharper, the better!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy depth of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get this soup simmering! Follow these simple steps:

1. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add in the garlic and cook for another minute – trust me, your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
2. Add the flour: Sprinkle the flour into the pot and stir to coat the onions and garlic. This will create a sort of roux that will thicken your soup. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to avoid burning.
3. Pour in the broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps of flour. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the broccoli and carrots: Toss in those vibrant broccoli florets and shredded carrots. They’ll add not only flavor but also fantastic color to your soup. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the veggies are tender.
5. Stir in the cream: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring until everything is beautifully combined.
6. Add the cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it’s fully melted and the soup is creamy; this is where the magic truly happens! You might be tempted to taste at this point, and I won’t judge – it’s hard to resist.
7. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a little nutmeg in for an unexpected depth of flavor. You’ve now created a bowl of pure comfort!
8. Serve warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it immediately. You might want to have a crispy baguette or some crunchy crackers on the side for dipping!

Pro Tips & Variations

You know me, I love a little creativity in the kitchen! Here are some fun twists to make this soup even more exciting:

• Add spices: A pinch of cayenne can bring a nice kick if you like some heat. It’s a simple way to spice up your usual routine!
• Switch up the cheese: If you’re feeling cheesy (and who isn’t?), try mixing in some Gruyère or Monterey Jack along with the cheddar for a flavor fusion.
• Go green: Add in other veggies like spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

A bowl of this glorious broccoli cheddar soup is perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with so many delightful options:

• Crispy Baguette: Dive your crusty bread right into the soup. There’s something magical about that first yummy bite.
• Side Salad: A fresh garden salad can balance the richness of the soup, making for a wholesome meal.
• Sandwich Combo: Make a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich for a classic lunch combination.

Storage Tips

Now, you might have some leftovers (if that’s possible!) or simply want to meal prep for the week ahead. Here’s how to store your delicious soup:

• Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. It’s best to freeze it before adding the cream and cheese; you can blend those in after thawing!
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then gently warm on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency, as soups often thicken when stored.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen broccoli is a great time-saver. Just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure it doesn’t get mushy.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as the soup will be slightly less creamy.

Can I make this soup vegan?

You can! Use plant-based butter, non-dairy cream, and a dairy-free cheese option. The flavor will still be fantastic!

How can I make the soup spicier?

For an extra kick, add some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce. Spice it up to your heart’s content!

Conclusion

I hope you love making this Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup as much as I do! It’s the kind of dish that warms both your belly and your soul. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe or any tweaks you made to make it your own. Feel free to drop a comment below or share your cozy soup moments! Happy cooking!