Description
This Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe replicates the creamy, cheesy, and comforting classic served at Panera Bread. Made with fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy roux base, it’s a satisfying homemade soup perfect for cooler days or any time you crave a warm, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Liquids
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 2 cups half-and-half (can substitute heavy cream or milk)
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 celery stalk, diced
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (extra-sharp for bolder flavor)
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, creating the flavor base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, which will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth followed by the half-and-half, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add Vegetables and Season: Incorporate the chopped broccoli, shredded carrots, diced celery, salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Optional Blending: For a smoother soup texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup; alternatively, leave it chunky for more texture.
- Serve: Serve the soup warm with crusty bread or your favorite accompaniment.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a richer soup or milk for a lighter consistency.
- Extra-sharp cheddar cheese provides a bolder and more pronounced cheddar flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- An immersion blender allows control over the soup texture whether smooth or chunky.
