Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Name: Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 medium yellow onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups rich half-and-half; 1/2 lb broccoli florets (roughly chopped (about 3 cups)); 1 cup carrots (cut into thin strips (or pre-packaged matchstick carrots)); 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Before we dive into the delicious details of the Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, let me share some mouthwatering pairings. This creamy soup is perfect with a crusty piece of bread for dipping. Think about fresh sourdough or a warm baguette.

Alternatively, a light Caesar salad can balance the richness of the soup. If you want a heartier option, consider serving it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. Rounding out the meal with a crisp apple or some sliced pears adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.

Best Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Ah, broccoli cheddar soup. This creamy, cheesy delight warms you up from the inside out. I remember my first encounter with this soup at Panera Bread. I was looking for something comforting, something that felt like a hug in a bowl. I opened that steaming cup, and the aroma swept me off my feet. The rich cheese mingling with fresh broccoli was pure magic. That moment sparked a curiosity in me. How could I recreate this version of comfort at home?

Table of Contents

What Is Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a fan favorite. It features tender broccoli cooked in a creamy cheddar base. This soup is served in a bread bowl or alongside a fresh baguette, making it a delightful meal any time of year. The combo of sharp cheese, fresh veggies, and comforting broth makes it a true classic.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it mirrors that beloved restaurant flavor. First, it uses sharp cheddar for a robust taste. The addition of half-and-half balances the soup’s richness while making it creamy. Cooking the vegetables just right ensures they remain tender without becoming mushy. Lastly, the seasoning is on point—don’t underestimate the power of garlic powder and nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. You’ll want everything at hand.

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups rich half-and-half
1/2 lb broccoli florets, roughly chopped (about 3 cups)
1 cup carrots, cut into thin strips (or pre-packaged matchstick carrots)
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Now, let’s roll our sleeves up and get cooking! This recipe is straightforward, yet the results are exceptional. Here’s a brief overview before we jump into the nitty-gritty: We start by sautéing the veggies, then add in the broth, followed by thickening agents, and finish it all off with cheese. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s foamy, add the chopped onions. You want them to become soft and translucent, which should take around 3-5 minutes. Make sure to stir to prevent them from browning. Adding the carrots at this point can create a lovely flavor base.

Step 2: Create the Roux

After the onions and carrots are soft, sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook the flour. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency later on. It will help thicken the soup while keeping the flavor intact.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking as you do so to keep the mixture smooth. The whisk is your best friend here, as it breaks up any clumps formed from the roux. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Mix in the Dairy

Now, it’s time to add the half-and-half. Pour it in slowly, and continue to stir. This addition will make the soup luxuriously creamy. Keep simmering for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Introduce the Vegetables

Toss in the broccoli florets and remaining carrots. You want the broccoli to remain vibrant and tender but not mushy. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the broccoli is a bright green and cooked through.

Step 6: Season and Cheese

Finally, stir in the garlic powder, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the shredded cheddar gradually, mixing well until it melts into the soup. Then, add the Parmesan cheese for an extra punch.

Tips

Don’t rush the sautéing: Allow the onions to become soft and fragrant. This builds a lovely base flavor.
Shred your cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.
Consistency matters: You can always adjust with more broth if it’s too thick for your liking.
Variation: If you want a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Blend it up: For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender for a few seconds right before adding the cheese.

Easy Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

How to Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored easily. First, let the soup cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. The soup can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in portions. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Information

panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe nutrition facts

How Would I Recommend Serving Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

With a Fresh Baguette: Breaking off a piece to dip into the soup makes every bite more satisfying. The crusty bread soaks up the creamy goodness.
In a Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the soup in a bread bowl. Eat the bowl when you’re done with the soup!
With a Side Salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the soup. Try a light vinaigrette.
Top with Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for a crunchy contrast. They add texture that’s simply irresistible.

What Alternatives Can You Use For the Ingredients If Not Available?

Sometimes, you can’t find exactly what you need. Here are some substitutions:

– Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

– Half-and-Half: You could use whole milk combined with a bit of heavy cream. This still gives the soup a creamy texture.

– Broccoli Florets: If broccoli isn’t available, consider using cauliflower florets instead. They’ll cook similarly and absorb the flavors.

– Sharp Cheddar: For a different flavor, use Monterey Jack cheese, which melts beautifully and provides a mild taste.

Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 25

Total Time: 35

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Servings: Servings

Calories: 413kcal

Author: Bex Smith

Equipment

large pot
whisk

Ingredients

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 medium yellow onion finely chopped
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups rich half-and-half
1/2 lb broccoli florets roughly chopped (about 3 cups)
1 cup carrots cut into thin strips (or pre-packaged matchstick carrots)
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded
Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese