Name: Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter or margarine.; 1 grated carrot.; 1 stalk celery, chopped.; 1 small bell pepper, chopped.; 1 onion, chopped.; 2 tablespoons wheat flour.; 1-2 cloves garlic, minced.; 2 cups hot chicken broth.; 2 cups whole milk or half & half.; 3-4 cups broccoli, chopped.; 1-2 cups cheddar cheese.; Salt and pepper to taste.

A bowl of creamy broccoli soup topped with black pepper, accompanied by slices of bread in the background. | tastygusto.com

This soup takes me back to cozy cafe lunches but tastes even better made at home. The tender broccoli and rich cheddar create pure comfort in every spoonful. Its become my familys go to soup when we want something warming and delicious thats still packed with veggies.

Why Make It From Scratch

I love making this soup at home because I can control exactly what goes into it. Its so much more affordable than buying it out and you can make it just the way you like it. Plus the leftovers taste even better the next day perfect for lunch or quick dinners.

Everything You Need

Broccoli: Provides fiber, vitamins C and K, and a fresh, slightly bitter taste that balances the rich cheese.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds bold, savory flavor and creamy texture, melting smoothly into the soup.
Butter: Forms the base for sautéing vegetables and enhances the soup's richness.
Vegetables: Onion, carrot, celery, and garlic contribute aromatic depth and natural sweetness.
Flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the creamy consistency.
Milk/Cream: Adds a luxurious texture; choose based on your desired richness.
Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base, easily swapped with vegetable broth for vegetarians.

Lets Make Soup

Prepare Ingredients:: Chop broccoli, dice vegetables, and measure out flour, broth, and milk or cream.
Sauté Vegetables:: Cook onions, carrots, and celery in butter until softened. Add garlic for aroma.
Create Roux:: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
Add Liquids:: Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, avoiding lumps. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Cook Broccoli:: Add broccoli florets and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
Finish with Cheese:: Lower heat and stir in cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

My Kitchen Secrets

Keep your heat low after adding dairy to prevent curdling. I like to blend just part of the soup for the perfect texture. Sometimes I mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar with gouda for extra flavor. Always add your cheese gradually it makes such a difference.

Make It Your Own

Some nights we add chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein. My vegetarian friends love it with veggie broth and plant based milk. A pinch of chili flakes gives it nice warmth and extra veggies like cauliflower make it even more nutritious.

A bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup garnished with freshly cracked black pepper and accompanied by slices of bread. | tastygusto.com

Serving and Saving

This soup is perfect with crusty bread for dipping or serve it in a bread bowl for something special. Any leftovers keep well in the fridge for about 3 days. Just warm it gently adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back that creamy texture.

Common Questions

Can I freeze this soup? Yes but the texture might change slightly. Thaw it overnight and reheat gently.
What cheese works best? Fresh sharp cheddar is my favorite but try mixing cheeses for different flavors.
How can I thicken it? Add more flour in the beginning or blend part of the soup.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely! Just add it straight to the pot.
How do I prevent curdling? Keep the heat low and stir constantly after adding dairy.

Good For You Too

This soup isnt just comforting its packed with nutrients. The broccoli gives you vitamins fiber and antioxidants while the cheese adds protein and calcium. Even the extra vegetables sneak in more vitamins making every bowl as nutritious as it is delicious.

Why You Need This Recipe

This version of broccoli cheese soup brings restaurant quality right to your kitchen. Its rich creamy and so satisfying whether youre making it for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. Once you try making it at home youll never want the store bought version again.

Health Benefits

Im amazed by how many good things are packed into this soup. The broccoli is full of vitamins that boost your immune system and help fight inflammation. That cheese isnt just tasty it gives you calcium and protein. Even using whole milk adds important vitamin D making this comfort food you can feel good about.

Ways to Switch It Up

Some nights we make it heartier with grilled chicken or ham. Adding extra vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini boosts the nutrition even more. A dash of hot sauce gives it kick and for my vegan friends we use plant based ingredients. Every version turns out delicious in its own way.

A bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup garnished with broccoli florets and black pepper, accompanied by slices of bread in the background. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why use freshly grated cheese?: Fresh-grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.
→ Can I make this dairy-free?: Yes, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and substitute with vegan cheese alternatives.
→ How do I adjust the thickness?: Add more milk or broth to thin the soup, or blend part of it to thicken. You can also use a flour-water slurry.
→ Can I freeze this soup?: Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to prevent separation and curdling.
→ How do I get the right broccoli texture?: Add broccoli early for softer texture, or later in cooking for more bite. Cook to your preferred tenderness.

Conclusion

This copycat version of Panera's famous soup combines fresh broccoli, vegetables, and cheddar in a creamy broth. Customize with different dairy options and adjust thickness to preference.

Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup