potato soup panera bread recipe

4.5 from 1331 votes

This creamy potato soup is a copycat of the popular Panera Bread version. It is loaded with tender potatoes, carrots, and celery in a rich and velvety broth.

🖨️ Print Recipe 📌 Pin Recipe ❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time40 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Soup Base

4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)

1 cup diced carrots

1 cup diced celery

1/2 cup diced onion

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Garnish (optional)

Chopped fresh chives

Bacon bits

Extra shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

2Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook the flour.

4Gradually pour in the broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme.

5Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until potatoes are tender.

6Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks. Alternatively, mash some potatoes with a potato masher.

7Stir in heavy cream and heat gently. If using, add cheddar cheese and stir until melted.

8Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your choice of garnishes.

🔧Equipment

Large pot

Wooden spoon

Measuring cups and spoons

Knife and cutting board

Immersion blender or potato masher

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream and reduce butter. You can also add more vegetables like corn or peas.

Watch Video Of How Potato Soup Panera Bread Recipe Works

This potato soup recipe is a true family favorite in my house. It is warm, filling, and always hits the spot. Whether it is a chilly evening or a casual get together, this soup works perfectly and everyone leaves happy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Potato Soup Panera Bread

1. Can I make this potato soup dairy free?

Yes, you can use a dairy free butter substitute and replace the heavy cream with full fat coconut milk or a dairy free creamer. The taste will change slightly but it will still be creamy.

2. How do I store leftover soup?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely then transfer to freezer safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half and half or whole milk for a lighter soup. For a dairy free option, use unsweetened oat milk or cashew cream.

5. How can I make the soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, blend more of the potatoes or add an extra tablespoon of flour when cooking the vegetables. You can also stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) at the end.

potato soup panera bread recipe

The Best potato soup panera bread recipe