Are you craving the comforting goodness of a steaming bowl of soup? Look no further than this delightful version of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this beloved dish brings the warmth of a café meal right to your kitchen. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a quick lunch, it’s the ideal way to indulge your taste buds.

In addition, this homemade rendition of a classic recipe allows you to control the ingredients, making it even more appealing. With fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a handful of spices, you can easily whip up a bowl of cheesy goodness that rivals your favorite café treat. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies! Discover how simple it is to recreate this tasty delight at home.

Ingredients for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

To create a delicious bowl of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 tablespoon butter
– ½ onion, chopped
– ¼ cup melted butter
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups chicken stock
– 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
– 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
– 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
– 2 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
– Salt and ground black pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together beautifully to recreate the comforting flavors of your favorite restaurant soup. If you’re interested in exploring more delightful soup options, check out this Creamy Tomato Basil Soup recipe that brings a lovely twist to your meal times. As you prepare your broccoli cheddar soup, remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences for an even bolder flavor. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

Transform your kitchen into a cozy cafe with this delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Next, incorporate the ¼ cup of melted butter with ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, whisking until smooth to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk and 2 cups of chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which helps it thicken beautifully. Add the coarsely chopped broccoli florets, matchstick-cut carrots, and thinly sliced celery. Allow the vegetables to cook until tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Finally, stir in the 2 ½ cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. For more soup inspiration, check out this Creamy Tuscan Chickpea Soup recipe.

Cooking Tips for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

To recreate the delightful flavors of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, start by selecting fresh, vibrant broccoli, which enhances both taste and nutrition. Blanch the broccoli before adding it to the soup, as this preserves its bright color and crunch. Use sharp cheddar cheese for a robust flavor—grating it yourself yields the best melt. Remember, adding it at the end prevents clumping. For a richer consistency, consider whisking in a bit of heavy cream as you simmer your ingredients.

For more comfort soups, check out this delicious Creamy Tuscan Chickpea Soup. This addition offers a delightful variety to your warm meal lineup. Lastly, if you want a precise recipe reference, take a look at this detailed guide on AllRecipes to perfect your soup-making skills. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor each spoonful!

Nutritional Information of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

The Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delicious blend of flavors, offering both comfort and satisfaction. A serving typically contains approximately 300 calories, making it a hearty yet manageable addition to your meal plan. Among its nutritional benefits, the soup provides around 15 grams of protein, which is great for keeping you full longer. It’s also rich in fiber, thanks to the broccoli, which supports digestive health.

Moreover, this comforting delight contains healthy fats derived from cheese and cream, which contribute to its creamy texture. That said, it can be high in sodium, so consider balancing it with low-sodium options or serving it with a fresh salad. For more wholesome soup recipes, explore the Creamy Tomato Basil Soup for another cozy option. Remember, adjusting the ingredients can help tailor this dish to your dietary needs while retaining its flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

When enjoying your homemade Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. A warm slice of artisan bread not only enhances the soup’s depth of flavor but also absorbs the delightful creamy goodness. For a light and zesty contrast, serve it alongside a refreshing salad tossed in vinaigrette.

To make your meal even more comforting, try adding a side of irresistible keto cheddar cheese muffins. These cheesy delights complement the rich flavors of the soup perfectly and add a satisfying crunch. For additional options, consider accompanying your soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, taking you back to childhood comfort food.

If you’re a fan of cozy soups, explore our Creamy Mushroom Pearl Couscous Soup for another delightful recipe. This variety keeps mealtime exciting while maintaining the comforting essence of warm soups. Enjoy your delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these creative sides!

Storage Tips:

To keep your delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions; they can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat gently, and for a warm, comforting option, try pairing with a dish like Creamy Tuscan Chickpea Soup for an extra cozy meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are necessary for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To create this beloved broccoli cheddar delight, you will need fresh broccoli, grated sharp cheddar cheese, butter, flour, onion, garlic, and heavy cream. Each component contributes to the rich, creamy texture, making this dish a comforting favorite.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

Typically, preparing Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup takes about 30 to 40 minutes. This includes time for chopping vegetables, simmering the broth, and allowing the cheese to melt into a creamy, savory blend.

Can I make this soup healthier?

Absolutely! You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and substitute part of the cheese to reduce calories while still enjoying a flavorful bowl. Adding in extra vegetables can also boost nutrition.

Is it possible to freeze Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

While it is feasible to freeze this soup, be aware that the dairy may separate upon reheating. To maintain the best texture, consider freezing the soup without cheese and adding it later when warmed.

What should I serve with broccoli cheddar soup?

This savory soup pairs incredibly well with crusty bread, a salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches. A fresh baguette or a side of comforting Creamy Tuscan Chickpea Soup can enhance your meal experience.

How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?

For added depth, try incorporating spices such as nutmeg or cayenne pepper. Sautéing the onions and garlic until golden will also elevate the overall flavor profile of your Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Irresistibly Creamy Delight

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh vegetables, bringing the café experience right into your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon butter

½ onion chopped

¼ cup melted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

2 cups chicken stock

1 ½ cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets

1 cup matchstick-cut carrots

1 stalk celery thinly sliced

2 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

salt and ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat and add chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the melted butter, flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer.
Add the chopped broccoli, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese if desired.