Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you a fan of Panera Bread's famous broccoli cheddar soup?

Jump to recipePin it
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep
15 min
Cook
45 min
Total
1 hr
Servings
8

Method

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the onion until it becomes tender and translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Set aside.

  2. In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter and whisk in the flour over medium-low heat. Continue whisking and cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk if needed to prevent burning.

  3. Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly. Stir in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes until the mixture thickens.

  4. Add the broccoli, carrots, celery, and sautéed onion to the saucepan. Simmer until all the vegetables are tender, approximately 15 minutes.

  5. Stir in the Cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

About this recipe

Are you a fan of Panera Bread's famous broccoli cheddar soup? Do you crave that creamy, cheesy goodness every time you pass by one of their locations? Well, you're in luck! In this article, we will reveal a copycat recipe that allows you to recreate the deliciousness of Panera's soup in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of warm, velvety soup that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.

Why Make a Copycat Recipe?

Why bother making a copycat recipe when you can just go to Panera and order a bowl of their soup? Well, there are a few reasons why you might want to try making it yourself. Firstly, it can be a fun and rewarding experience to recreate your favorite restaurant dishes in your own kitchen. Secondly, making it at home allows you to customize the soup to your liking - you can add extra broccoli, reduce the amount of cheese, or even make it vegetarian-friendly. Finally, it can be a cost-effective option, especially if you have a large family or if you want to enjoy the soup regularly without breaking the bank.

The Secret to Creaminess

One of the key elements of Panera's broccoli cheddar soup is its creamy texture. Achieving that perfect consistency can be a challenge, but fear not! We have a secret ingredient that will take your soup to the next level - cream cheese. Adding a dollop of cream cheese to the soup during the cooking process gives it a velvety smoothness that will make you feel like you're dining in a fancy restaurant.

A Twist of Flavor

While the original Panera recipe is delicious on its own, you can always add your own twist to make it even more flavorful. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it a subtle kick. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as sharp cheddar or gruyere, to create a unique blend of flavors. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?

Yes, absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon from the recipe. The soup will still be packed with flavor and perfect for vegetarians.

. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it.

. Can I freeze the soup?

While it is possible to freeze the soup, the texture of the cheese may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If you do decide to freeze it, make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! This recipe serves as a great base, and you can add other vegetables such as cauliflower, carrots, or even potatoes to make it heartier.

. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the instructions up until step 5, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, make sure to check the labels of your chicken broth and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

. Can I add protein to the soup?

If you want to add some protein to the soup, you can include cooked chicken or ham. Simply dice the meat and add it to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

In conclusion, making a copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is not only a fun and rewarding experience, but it also allows you to customize the soup to your liking and save money. With a few simple ingredients and our secret tips, you can recreate the creamy, cheesy deliciousness of Panera's soup right in your own kitchen. So, why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More soups

See all →