Creamy Comfort: Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
You can whip up this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup in just 30 minutes, and it’s loaded with rich, creamy flavors and healthy veggies. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this comforting bowl of goodness will be your new family favorite.
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s as creamy and delicious as this one. I fondly remember my first visit to Panera with friends, savoring each spoonful of their Broccoli Cheddar Soup. The way the broccoli and cheese harmonize, wrapping around you like a warm hug , it just calls to you on chilly days. Inspired by those cozy moments, I decided to bring this delightful recipe right into my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting copycat version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 0.5 onion, chopped
- 0.25 cup melted butter
- 0.25 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1.5 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
- 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
- 2.5 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and get ready to create some kitchen magic.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup of melted butter and flour over medium-low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, adding milk if needed.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and stir in the chicken stock. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the mixture to thicken for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add in the broccoli, carrots, celery, and sautéed onions. Simmer until the veggies are tender, roughly 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread for dipping. If you have leftovers, store in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Why Whip Up This Cozy Soup?
This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a family-friendly dish that brings everyone together around the table. Bursting with fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and heartwarming flavors, this comforting classic is ready to be devoured in less than thirty minutes. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one!
The Easy Steps to Making Broccoli Cheddar Bliss
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 0.5 onion, chopped
- 0.25 cup melted butter
- 0.25 cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1.5 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
- 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
- 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
- 2.5 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Gather all your ingredients and get ready to create some kitchen magic.
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Set it aside; we’ll bring it back shortly!
- In a large saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup of melted butter and flour over medium-low heat. Keep whisking for about 3 to 4 minutes, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk if needed to prevent the flour from burning.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly, and stir in the chicken stock. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the mixture to thicken for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep things smooth.
- Now, add in the broccoli, carrots, celery, and those lovely sautéed onions you set aside. Simmer everything together until the veggies are tender, roughly 10 to 15 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving up this delicious comfort.
Serving Your Creamy Creation
Serve this cozy soup in warm bowls, and don’t forget to pair it with crusty bread for dipping! It makes for a wonderful family-friendly meal any night of the week.
Storing Your Leftover Goodness
If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence, I know!), let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to three months , just remember to label it!
Tips for Perfecting Your Copycat Soup
- If you like a thinner soup, simply add more chicken stock or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste your soup before adding salt, as the Cheddar can lend some saltiness already.
- For a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce!
Delicious Variations to Try
- Swap out the Cheddar for Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
- More greens? Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
- No chicken broth? You can use vegetable broth for a lighter vegetarian option.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and opt for non-chicken-based seasoning.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to throw in your favorites, like sweet corn or bell peppers, to make it even heartier.
What can I serve with this soup?
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or even a classic grilled cheese sandwich.
Now that you have this delightful recipe in hand, it’s time to gather your loved ones and warm up with a cozy bowl of homemade Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious comfort food.
