Why Make This Recipe
If you love the warm, comforting flavors of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’re in for a treat! This copycat version brings you that same creamy, cheesy goodness but made right at home. It’s a delicious way to enjoy some veggies and satisfies the palate with its rich textures and flavors. Plus, making it yourself means you can customize it to your liking and enjoy this classic soup any time.
How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. This will be the base for your soup, providing flavor and creaminess.
Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Cook them until softened, about 4-5 minutes. You want them to be tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Flour: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute. This will help thicken the soup later, giving it that creamy consistency.
Whisk in Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, bringing it to a simmer. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps forming.
Add Broccoli: Once simmering, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook until tender, which should take about 10 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they turn bright green and are easy to pierce with a fork.
Mix in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens, turning the broth into a rich, creamy soup.
Season: Lastly, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
This soup is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also drizzle a bit of extra heavy cream on top for presentation and an additional creamy touch. If you want to make it even heartier, consider serving it in a bread bowl for a fun and delicious twist.
How to Store Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
To store any leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cool soup in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Tips to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh broccoli and vegetables enhances the flavor. Frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch, but fresh will give you better texture and taste.
Cheese Choice: While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or even a blend for unique flavors.
Texture Preference: If you like a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup after adding the cheese and cream. Alternatively, if you prefer more texture, leave it chunky!
Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Spices for Extra Flavor: Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for an extra flavor kick. Just a pinch can change the entire dish!
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and consider adding more vegetables like cauliflower or corn for additional flavor and texture.
Add Protein: For a heartier soup, try adding cooked shredded chicken or diced ham. These can be mixed in towards the end of cooking.
Spicy Broccoli Cheese Soup: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup keeps well, so feel free to make it a day or two ahead. Just remember to store it properly in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze leftover soup?
Absolutely! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just ensure it cools completely before freezing.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. You could also serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
How can I add more flavor to the soup?
In addition to the basic seasonings, you can add herbs like thyme or basil, or a splash of hot sauce for a zingy flavor.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you need a lighter option, you can substitute milk or half-and-half, but the soup may not be as rich and creamy.
Enjoy making this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup at home. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a cozy meal!
Print
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously creamy and cheesy broccoli cheese soup made right at home, similar to Panera’s classic.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Cook the diced onion and carrots until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute.
- Whisk in the chicken broth until simmering, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Mix in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad. For added richness, drizzle extra cream on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, copycat recipe, Panera, comfort food, easy soup