Why Make This Recipe
If you love the rich and creamy flavor of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup but want to enjoy it at home, this copycat recipe is just for you! Making your own version not only saves you money but also allows you to control the ingredients. You can choose fresh broccoli, high-quality cheese, and the perfect seasonings, ensuring a soup that’s tailored to your taste. Plus, this soup is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any time of the year—you can enjoy it in winter to warm up or even serve it chilled in summer.
How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Melt Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Cook them until they are softened, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Flour: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute, mixing well to ensure it’s incorporated.
- Add Chicken Broth: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth. Bring it to a simmer, which should take another 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Broccoli: Once simmering, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season: Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup warm.
How to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
This soup is great on its own but can be made a complete meal when served with crusty bread or a side salad. For a delightful presentation, consider serving it in bread bowls, just like Panera does. Top each serving with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or some freshly cracked black pepper. You could also add a few toasted croutons on top for a bit of crunch!
How to Store Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, remember that the cream tends to thicken, so you may need to add a touch of chicken broth or water to bring it back to the right consistency. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When freezing, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Tips to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh broccoli and carrots will give you the best flavor. Frozen veggies can work in a pinch but may alter the soup’s texture.
- Grate Your Cheese: For the best melting and smooth texture, use block cheese that you can grate yourself rather than pre-shredded cheese.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, add a bit more flour when cooking the vegetables, or let the soup simmer longer.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use a plant-based cream option.
Variation
You can customize this recipe to fit your tastes. Some ideas include:
- Add Protein: Consider adding cooked chicken or turkey for added protein. You can shred it and mix it in just before serving.
- Different Cheeses: To change the flavor profile, you could experiment with different cheeses. Gouda or Monterey Jack can add a unique twist.
- Mix in Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as cauliflower or mushrooms for a more colorful soup.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors develop beautifully overnight.
2. How can I make the soup dairy-free?
To make the soup dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure that your broth is also suitable for your dietary needs.
3. Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re in a hurry, frozen broccoli will work, but be aware it may affect the texture of the soup. Cook it just until it’s tender without overcooking.
4. What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Making your own version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. Enjoy it hot, and feel free to make it your own!
Print
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy soup that replicates the famous Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Notes
For a thicker soup, add more flour or let it simmer longer. Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg