This Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that tastes just like the version served at Panera Bread. With tender broccoli, carrots, and a rich cheddar cheese base, it’s the perfect soup for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and hearty!
📋 Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 🧈
- 1 small onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth 🍲
- 2 cups half-and-half or whole milk 🥛
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped 🥦
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated 🥕
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) 🌿
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) 🌿
- Crusty bread for serving 🍞
📝 Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook the onion and garlic:
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Make the Roux:
- Add flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook the raw taste out of the flour.
- Add broth and milk:
- Slowly whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and the half-and-half (or milk), stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables:
- Add broccoli and carrots:
- Stir in the chopped broccoli florets and grated carrots. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the soup has thickened.
4. Add Cheese and Seasonings:
- Stir in the cheese:
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring until melted and fully incorporated.
- Season:
- Add the nutmeg (if using), and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
- Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with bread:
- Serve this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup with a side of crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a true Panera experience.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving
This Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich and creamy blend of cheese, vegetables, and savory goodness, making it perfect for any cozy lunch or dinner. It’s a family favorite that everyone will love! 🥦🧀🍲