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
