If you have ever fallen in love with the rich, cheesy goodness of Panera’s famous soup, then you are in for a treat. This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe brings that exact comforting bowl of creamy broccoli cheddar soup right into your own kitchen. Imagine velvety sharp cheddar melted in a luscious, buttery base, combined perfectly with tender broccoli and sweet carrots for a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the perfect blend of bold flavor, smooth texture, and wholesome veggies made simple to satisfy your cravings without the restaurant price or wait.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing the texture, richness, and vibrant flavor that make this soup so memorable.
- 4 tbsp butter: Creates the rich and silky base for sautéing the aromatics and thickening the soup.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when softened.
- ¼ cup flour: Works as the thickening agent to achieve that creamy consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory backbone without overpowering the cheese.
- 2 cups half-and-half: Delivers the perfect creaminess while keeping the soup smooth and velvety.
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped: The star vegetable offering freshness, vibrant color, and subtle earthiness.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and beautiful orange contrast.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, melty cheesiness that defines the flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp nutmeg: A secret spice that perfectly enhances the cheese and cream with warmth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and brighten every bite.
How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onion in Butter
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Cook gently until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor that will make your soup irresistible.
Step 2: Create the Roux
Stir in the flour and cook it for about one minute, making sure it doesn’t brown. This forms a roux, which thickens your soup and gives it that wonderfully creamy body you’re aiming for.
Step 3: Add Broth and Half-and-Half
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half until completely smooth. This ensures there are no lumps and the soup base is perfectly combined for a silky texture.
Step 4: Simmer Broccoli and Carrots
Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots to the pot, then let the soup gently simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. This keeps the fresh veggie flavor alive and gives the soup its character and color.
Step 5: Stir in Cheddar and Nutmeg
Reduce the heat to low and mix in the sharp cheddar cheese a handful at a time until thoroughly melted. Finally, sprinkle in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. This final step adds depth, warmth, and that unmistakable cheesy richness you know from Panera.
How to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup with a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper for eye-catching presentation and an extra burst of flavor. A few toasted bread crumbs add delightful texture and a homemade touch.
Side Dishes
Serve your hot, creamy soup alongside crusty bread or fresh baguette slices to soak up every last drop. For heartier meals, a crisp side salad or a sandwich pairs beautifully, creating the perfect balance of lightness and indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner setting, serve the soup inside hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls, just like Panera’s signature style. You can also pour the soup into individual ramekins and garnish with chives or grated cheese for a charming appetizer presentation that wows your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before storing, so your soup stays fresh and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that cream-based soups may separate slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, gently reheat and whisk well. Avoid freezing the soup with added garnishes or bread.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to maintain smoothness. If the soup thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth or half-and-half to restore that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth and you’ll have a flavorful vegetarian version of this delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for this soup because it delivers robust flavor and melts smoothly, giving that classic Panera taste. Freshly shredding your cheese at home makes a big difference compared to pre-shredded options.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess water from thinning out the soup.
Is this soup gluten-free?
The traditional recipe uses flour to thicken, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and make sure to use gluten-free broth.
What’s the best way to adjust the soup for more thickness?
If you prefer your soup thicker, you can add a bit more flour during the roux step or simmer it a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Just be careful not to overdo it, as this soup is best when creamy and smooth.
Final Thoughts
Making this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe at home is a wonderful way to enjoy a beloved classic any time you wish. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and so rewarding to stir up from scratch. Cozy up with a warm bowl and share the joy of this creamy, cheesy, and veggie-filled soup with friends and family—trust me, you’re going to love every spoonful.
Print
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This authentic copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup delivers all the cozy creaminess and bold cheddar flavor you love — made easily at home. Perfectly creamy with tender broccoli and a rich sharp cheddar cheese base, this soup is comforting and delicious for any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 3 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Create Roux: Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute to form a roux, which will help thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth.
- Simmer Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the pot. Let the soup simmer gently over medium-low heat for 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Incorporate Cheese and Spices: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and nutmeg. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Use freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese for the smoothest and creamiest texture.
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or inside a bread bowl for an authentic Panera experience.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth or half-and-half if the soup is too thick.
- For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
