panera bread broccoli and cheese soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best panera bread broccoli and cheese soup recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup. This delicious and comforting soup is a staple in our household, and for good reason.

The creamy cheese and tender broccoli are a match made in heaven, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make at home. I first discovered this recipe on the Panera Bread website, but I’ve tweaked it to suit my family’s tastes.

My kids love helping me chop the veggies and stir in the cheese, and my husband appreciates how quickly it can be whipped up on a weeknight. As for me, I love that this recipe is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients from the broccoli and cheese.

It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening or as a healthy addition to our mealtime routine. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a tasty way to get your daily dose of greens, this Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too!

I like to serve it with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping into the creamy broth.

Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup

4.8 from 1316 votes

A rich and creamy soup featuring tender broccoli florets and a blend of cheeses, inspired by the classic Panera Bread recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for cold weather and can be easily made at home.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add broccoli florets to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
5Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli starts to soften and turn bright green.
6Pour in chicken broth and milk.
7Stir well to combine all ingredients.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
9Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
10Using a blender, carefully blend half of the soup mixture until smooth.
11Return the blended soup to the saucepan and add the shredded cheddar cheese.
12Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
13Season the soup with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
14Stir well to combine all ingredients.
15Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
16Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the soup is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
17Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
18Garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped broccoli if desired.
19Enjoy your homemade Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup.

🔧Equipment

Saucepan
Wooden spoon
Whisk
Blender

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 17g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother soup, you can blend all of the soup mixture instead of just half. Add a splash of heavy cream for an even creamier texture.

Watch Video Of How Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup Works

This Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup recipe is one of our go-to meals for any occasion – whether we’re looking for something comforting on a chilly evening or need a quick lunch option during the week. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit our tastes – we like adding extra veggies like carrots or celery for added nutrition, while my husband prefers more cheese than I do!

Either way, this soup always hits the spot and leaves us feeling satisfied without feeling guilty about what we’ve eaten. When storing leftovers, be sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll keep for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup

1. What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

The original Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup recipe calls for cheddar cheese, but you can substitute with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan if you prefer a stronger flavor. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

While fresh broccoli is always preferred, frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first and pat it dry before adding it to the pot.

3. How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

If you find that your soup is becoming too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to thin it out. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of milk or cream to give it a creamier texture without adding too much liquid.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the onions and garlic in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 2-3 hours until the soup has thickened slightly.

5. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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