Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe

Imagine yourself cozied up with a steaming bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat), the aroma wafting through your kitchen like a warm hug. The rich, creamy texture and the vibrant green of fresh broccoli stir memories of chilly evenings spent with friends, laughing over endless bowls of this comforting delight. Cream of Zucchini Soup.

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Now picture this: it’s a rainy day, you’re in your PJs, and the only motivation to leave the couch is for a second helping. This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience crafted to warm your heart and tickle your taste buds. Dive into this bowl of goodness, where cheddar cheese meets tender broccoli in a dance of flavors that will have you singing “Soup-erstar”! For more inspiration, check out this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham recipe.

I remember the first time I made this Broccoli Cheddar Soup for my family; their delighted faces were priceless as they slurped up every last drop.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets for maximum freshness and nutrition; frozen broccoli works in a pinch.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to give that robust flavor that makes the soup sing.

• Onion: Use a sweet onion for a mild base flavor that balances beautifully with the cheese.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will add depth and richness; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.

• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade broth elevates the flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Wrap recipe recipe.

• Heavy Cream: Adds luscious creaminess to the soup; you can substitute half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten things up.

• Butter: For sautéing vegetables and enhancing overall flavor; do not skip this one!

• Flour: To thicken the soup and give it that creamy consistency we all love.

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors without overpowering them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Broccoli & Broth: Toss in your fresh broccoli florets and pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.

Create The Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt an additional tablespoon of butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown, stirring continuously.

Combine & Blend : Slowly add your roux to the broccoli mixture while stirring constantly. Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend until smooth—leave some chunks for texture if desired.

Add Cheese & Cream : Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese and heavy cream gradually over low heat until melted and well combined. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve & Enjoy : Ladle the creamy goodness into bowls. Pair with crusty bread or crackers—trust me, you’ll want to soak up every last drop!

Now you have a delightful bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) ready to enjoy on any occasion! Whether it’s cozying up on a rainy afternoon or impressing guests at dinner, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Cheddar Corn Chowder recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, start by sautéing the onions and garlic until fragrant, then add broccoli and broth to simmer. Finally, stir in cheese slowly for a creamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this soup with extra veggies, like carrots or cauliflower. Roasted Cauliflower side dish You can also swap cheddar for gouda for a smoky twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.

Sharing this Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe has brought smiles and warmth to many chilly evenings at home with family and friends. Meatball and Spaghetti Soup.

FAQ

Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, but fresh broccoli offers better texture and flavor.

What type of cheese works best in this soup?

Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor profile for your soup.

How can I make this soup vegan-friendly?

Use plant-based cheese and vegetable broth instead of dairy products.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)

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• Author: deleciouscorner
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) is a warm and creamy delight that’s perfect for chilly days. Bursting with the flavors of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli, this comforting soup is not only quick to make but also a beautiful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on a rainy afternoon or served as a starter at dinner, this recipe promises satisfaction in every spoonful.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Stir in fresh broccoli florets and pour in the broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until broccoli is tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt an additional tablespoon of butter. Whisk in flour until smooth; cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
4. Gradually add the roux to the broccoli mixture while stirring constantly. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender; leave some chunks for texture if desired.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream over low heat until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot, paired with crusty bread or crackers.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 70mg