why make this recipe
If you love the creamy, cheesy goodness of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup, then making a copycat version at home is a delightful treat. This recipe captures the same rich flavors but allows you to control the ingredients to ensure everything is fresh and just the way you like it. Plus, making it at home can be more economical than dining out. Perfect for a comforting lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer, this soup warms you from the inside out, especially on chilly days.
how to make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Directions:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the broccoli florets and bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the half-and-half and shredded cheddar cheese. Add the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with extra cheese or croutons.
how to serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
This soup is great by itself but can be served in various ways to enhance the experience. A lovely crusty bread or a warm baguette pairs perfectly with the soup, making for a hearty meal. You can also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and delightful presentation. For a sprinkle of extra flavor, top each serving with some freshly grated cheddar cheese or even some crispy bacon bits. A side salad can also complement the rich flavors and add a bit of freshness to your meal.
how to store Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
If you find yourself with leftover soup, don’t worry! It stores well in the refrigerator. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in a pot over medium heat. If the soup thickens in the fridge, you can add a little more vegetable broth or half-and-half when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
You can also freeze this soup for longer storage. Make sure to let it cool completely before pouring it into a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then warm it on the stove.
tips to make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor, use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Fresh broccoli retains its crunch and color better during cooking.
- Cheese Choices: While sharp cheddar is the classic option, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Blend for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup before adding the cheese.
- Thicken it Up: If you want a thicker soup, simply let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add more flour when making the roux.
- Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat or fresh herbs like thyme for added depth of flavor.
variation
You can easily customize this recipe to fit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Add Protein: To make the soup more filling, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked bacon bits. This transforms the soup into a more substantial meal.
- Vegan Version: To make a vegan version, substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or almond milk and use vegan cheddar cheese. You can also replace the butter with olive oil.
- Different Vegetables: Besides broccoli, you can add other vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even spinach for added nutrition and variability in flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just make sure to thaw it beforehand and reduce the cooking time, as it usually cooks faster than fresh broccoli.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or freshly ground black pepper to kick up the heat. You can also top the soup with some jalapeños for an extra punch.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than you like, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or half-and-half until you reach your desired consistency.
How long does this soup take to prepare?
This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup can be made in about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dish.
Enjoy this delicious homemade version of the popular Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and with its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Print
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A homemade version of the popular creamy and cheesy Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the broccoli florets and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the half-and-half and shredded cheddar cheese. Add the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with extra cheese or croutons.
Notes
This soup can be served with crusty bread or in a bread bowl. To store leftovers, cool and transfer to an airtight container; it keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, copycat Panera recipe, comfort food