Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread features tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese blended into a creamy, velvety base, topped with a sprinkle of grated cheddar, delivering a comforting and flavorful bowl with a vibrant green and golden appearance.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Box grater (for cheese)
- Ladle
- Blender or immersion blender
- Serving bowls
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Extra shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
Fresh broccoli florets ensure the soup's tender texture and vibrant green color, so choose firm, bright green heads without yellowing. Sharp cheddar cheese is key for the rich, tangy flavor; using a good quality cheese will enhance your soup's taste significantly. Whole milk and heavy cream create the creamy, velvety base, so maintain their proportions to get the perfect consistency. You can customize seasoning with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to suit your taste but be careful not to overpower the cheddar's flavor. Your copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread will shine with these ingredient choices, capturing its comforting and flavorful essence perfectly.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Chop broccoli florets, carrots, onions, and garlic with chef’s knife on cutting board.
- Grate sharp cheddar cheese with box grater; set aside.
- In large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour; whisk constantly for 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, whole milk, and heavy cream.
- Add broccoli florets and shredded carrots.
- Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer, stirring occasionally, until broccoli and carrots are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use immersion blender (or blender in batches) to blend soup to desired consistency (smooth or slightly chunky).
- Lower heat; gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and soup is creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Ladle hot soup into serving bowls.
- Top each bowl with extra shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread copycat menu offers a creamy blend of tender broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, capturing the authentic flavors of the popular cafe favorite. If you don't have whole milk on hand, you can substitute with 2% milk or half-and-half for a slightly lighter texture without sacrificing creaminess. When sharp cheddar cheese is unavailable, a mix of mild cheddar and aged white cheddar can provide a similar tangy, rich flavor profile. To achieve the smooth consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the soup carefully to a regular blender in batches. Your choice of vegetable broth can vary in saltiness, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
Tips
Be sure to finely grate the sharp cheddar cheese so it melts smoothly and integrates well into the soup, preventing clumps. When making the roux, whisk constantly to avoid burning and ensure a lump-free base that thickens the soup properly. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easy blending to your preferred consistency, but be cautious of hot splashes to protect your skin. Your final taste adjustment with salt and pepper is important for balancing the rich, creamy flavors just right.
Nutritions
Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread offers a nutritious boost with 4 cups of broccoli florets and 1 cup of shredded carrots, both rich in vitamins A, C, and dietary fiber. The soup combines 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, providing a good source of calcium and protein essential for bone health. Whole milk and heavy cream add healthy fats and calories to keep you energized, while the low-sodium vegetable broth helps control sodium intake. Your balanced bowl supports both flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying meal option.
Storage
Store your Broccoli Cheddar Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 to 4 days to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion, and consume within 2 to 3 months for best quality. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling and ensure the sharp cheddar cheese melts smoothly.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute sharp cheddar cheese with smoked gouda or gruyere to add a richer, smokier flavor that complements the broccoli. You can replace whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk and cashew cream for a dairy-free, vegan alternative without sacrificing creaminess. Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a more savory depth of flavor. You can roast the broccoli and carrots beforehand to enhance their natural sweetness and add a subtle char, which will deepen the soup's overall taste.
Allergies
Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains dairy ingredients such as whole milk, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and sharp cheddar cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergy. The soup also includes wheat-based all-purpose flour, posing a risk for those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. You should verify all ingredients carefully if you have allergies to dairy or gluten to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread is loved for its rich, creamy texture and balanced flavors of sharp cheddar cheese and tender broccoli. The soup offers comforting warmth and a satisfying taste that appeals to a wide range of palates. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the ingredients and control the quality, delivering the same delicious experience at home. Your homemade soup can be just as indulgent while offering the benefit of fresh, wholesome ingredients.