Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe

ByEmma

If you’ve ever visited Panera Bread, you’ve probably enjoyed their creamy and comforting Broccoli and Cheese Soup. This rich, flavorful soup is the perfect combination of tender broccoli, melted cheese, and a creamy base. The best part? You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients! This recipe will show you how to recreate that delicious taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this homemade version of Panera Bread’s Broccoli and Cheese Soup, here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup flour (all-purpose)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, but adds a great flavor depth)

Pro Tip: For a richer taste, use sharp cheddar cheese. It gives the soup a stronger, tangier flavor that complements the creamy base beautifully.

How to Make Panera Bread Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant.

Pro Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic—garlic can turn bitter quickly when overcooked. Stir frequently to avoid any burning.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Add the flour to the pot and stir constantly to form a smooth mixture. Cook the flour for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw taste. This step will thicken the soup later.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once combined, add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth.

Pro Tip: Using a whisk at this point can help ensure that the roux blends well with the liquids, giving you a smooth and creamy base for the soup.

Step 4: Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli becomes tender. You can cook the broccoli to your desired tenderness, but remember, slightly tender broccoli adds a nice texture to the soup.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the broccoli is cooked, lower the heat to low and start adding the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time. Stir until the cheese melts completely, making the soup creamy and thick. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using.

Pro Tip: If your soup is too thick, you can add a little more milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Blend (Optional)

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer about half of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then stir it back into the pot.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works just fine, but be sure to let the soup cool for a few minutes before blending. Always blend in batches and be cautious of hot splashes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Broccoli and Cheese Soup hot, topped with extra shredded cheddar cheese or some freshly ground black pepper if desired. Pair it with a crusty bread bowl for that classic Panera experience!

Pro Tip: To recreate the Panera Bread experience, serve the soup in a sourdough bread bowl—the bread soaks up the delicious broth, adding to the comfort factor.

Final Thoughts

This Panera Bread-inspired Broccoli and Cheese Soup is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Feel free to customize it by adding more veggies like carrots or cauliflower for added flavor and nutrition.

Additional Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice up the flavor.
  • Extra Creamy: Use half-and-half in place of the heavy cream for an even richer soup.

With this recipe, you’ll have a comforting bowl of Broccoli and Cheese Soup just like Panera Bread, without leaving the house!

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