panera copycat broccoli cheddar soup recipe

4.7 from 1625 votes

A creamy and comforting soup packed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, reminiscent of Panera’s classic dish. This copycat recipe is easy to make at home.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups broccoli florets

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.

2Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

3Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.

5Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.

6Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

8Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.

9Use an immersion blender to blend about half of the soup until smooth for a creamy texture.

10Be careful not to over blend, as you want to retain some broccoli chunks for texture.

11In a small bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

12Gradually add this mixture to the soup while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

13Cook the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.

14Remove the pot from the heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

15Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

16If you prefer a thinner soup, add a bit more milk or broth.

🔧Equipment

Large pot

Wooden spoon

Whisk

Immersion blender

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

Tips: For a healthier version, you can use low-fat milk and less cheese. Add cooked chicken or bacon for extra protein and flavor.

This Panera copycat broccoli cheddar soup recipe has become a staple in our household – we love serving it at family gatherings and potlucks because everyone always raves about it.

And as an added bonus, it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness or a delicious side dish for your next gathering, this recipe delivers – give it a try!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Q: What’s the secret ingredient in this Panera copycat broccoli cheddar soup recipe?

The secret ingredient is actually quite simple: a combination of fresh and frozen broccoli florets. Using both types of broccoli gives the soup a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli only?

While you can use fresh broccoli only, using a combination of fresh and frozen broccoli florets will give the soup a more authentic taste.

Q: How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative such as vegan cheddar or soy cheese.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe in advance by preparing the ingredients and storing them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover broccoli cheddar soup?

The best way to reheat leftover broccoli cheddar soup is by using the microwave or oven – just be sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

panera copycat broccoli cheddar soup recipe

The Best panera copycat broccoli cheddar soup recipe

Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe