If you love the creamy and cheesy flavors of the famous restaurant dish, you’re in for a treat. This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is hearty and comforting, perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, it’s simple to make and uses ingredients you likely already have at home. You’ll find that it rivals the original, without breaking the bank! You may also find Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole Easy 2 useful.

Why Make This Recipe

This soup is rich in flavor and texture, making it a favorite for cheese lovers.
It’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables, especially if you’re not a big fan of broccoli.
Preparing it at home is much easier than you might think, saving you a trip to the restaurant.

How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making this soup involves cooking the vegetables, creating a creamy base, and mixing in delicious cheese. It’s a straightforward process that results in a bowl of comfort food that everyone will enjoy. Follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time! You may also find Cheesy Cheddar Broccoli Casserole Easy useful.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 cups broccoli florets
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
In the same pot, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, milk, and heavy cream.
Add the broccoli florets and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Remove from heat, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

How to Serve Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or a light salad. You can also serve it in a bread bowl for a fun twist. To elevate your meal, consider sprinkling some extra cheese or croutons on top.

How to Store Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Tips to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Feel free to use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on what you have available.
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency.
If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking.
This recipe can easily be doubled or halved based on your needs.

Variations

Add cooked chicken for a heartier meal.
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version instead of heavy cream.
Try different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it stores well and can be reheated later.
What can I use instead of vegetable broth? Chicken broth is a good alternative that adds more flavor.
How can I make this soup vegan? Use plant-based butter and substitute with non-dairy milk and cream, along with vegan cheese.

Conclusion

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is sure to satisfy on chilly days and is easy to prepare. For more detailed recipes, check out this recipe at Allrecipes or visit The Girl Who Ate Everything for additional variations to try.