Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Indulge in the creamy and comforting flavors of Panera Bread’s famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup with this easy copycat recipe. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or looking for a delicious dish to impress your guests, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Rich and flavorful: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and savory chicken stock creates a soup that is bursting with delicious flavors.
2. Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be whipped up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
3. Ideal for meal prep: Make a big batch of this soup and store it in the fridge or freezer for a convenient and satisfying meal option throughout the week.

Ingredient Notes:

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the soup.
• Onion, celery, and garlic: Create a flavorful base for the soup.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to a creamy consistency.
• Whole milk and chicken stock: Provide a creamy and savory base for the soup.
• Broccoli and matchstick carrots: Add texture and a pop of color to the dish.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Season the soup to taste.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the soup, giving it a cheesy and decadent finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until translucent.
2. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk and chicken stock.
3. Add the broccoli and carrots, cooking until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

• For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree some of the broccoli before adding the cheese.
• To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and omit the carrots for a classic broccoli cheddar soup.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
2. Fresh broccoli works best in this recipe for a vibrant and crisp texture.
3. Allow the soup to simmer and meld the flavors together for the tastiest results.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a crusty baguette for dipping or a side salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat the soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk to thin it out if needed. Do not boil the soup to avoid curdling the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used, but fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture.
2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? While pre-shredded cheese can be used, freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and create a creamier consistency.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to thicken the soup.
4. Can I add additional vegetables to this soup? Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite veggies like cauliflower or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion:

Warm up your kitchen and your taste buds with this Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. Whether you’re a soup lover or looking to impress your family and friends, this recipe is a surefire hit. Try it out and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Print