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Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
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Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup is a creamy, comforting classic that combines fresh broccoli florets with a rich and velvety sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfectly balanced with buttery roux, aromatic onions and garlic, and a smooth blend of milk and cream, this soup offers warmth and nostalgia in every spoonful. Ideal for chilly days or when craving a hearty, nutritious meal, it’s easy to customize to your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Cheese

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Thickening & Liquids

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Base: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant without browning.
  2. Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to form a light roux. This thickens the soup and creates a creamy texture.
  3. Add Broth and Broccoli: Slowly pour in chicken or vegetable broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add broccoli florets and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
  4. Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture reminiscent of Panera’s style, blend half of the broccoli mixture using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender. Stir blended portion back into the pot for a perfect balance of creamy and chunky.
  5. Incorporate Dairy and Cheese: Lower the heat and stir in milk and heavy cream. Gradually add shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted and the soup turns luscious and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Simmer and Serve: Allow the soup to simmer a few more minutes so all flavors meld beautifully. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your comforting, indulgent soup.

Notes

  • Use fresh broccoli when possible to maximize flavor and texture.
  • Grate sharp cheddar cheese yourself to ensure better melting and flavor, avoiding pre-shredded varieties with anti-caking agents.
  • Add cheese on low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy or separating.
  • The soup tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld. Make ahead and refrigerate.
  • If the soup is too thick, thin it with extra broth; to thicken, simmer longer or add a bit more flour.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheese soup, Panera recipe, creamy broccoli soup, cheesy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/panera-broccoli-cheese-soup/