Creamy, Comforting Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe You’ll Love
When chilly weather calls for a warm, hearty bowl of soup, few recipes satisfy quite like Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup. This creamy, cheesy classic is packed with tender broccoli florets and melted cheese, delivering rich flavors and comforting warmth with every spoonful.
Whether you’re craving a cozy lunch, a simple dinner, or a crowd-pleasing starter, this homemade version of Panera’s famous soup is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Why This Soup Is So Popular
🥦 Loaded with fresh broccoli for a nutritious boost
🧀 Rich, creamy cheese sauce that’s velvety and flavorful
🍲 Comfort food at its finest — filling and satisfying
👩🍳 Simple ingredients and straightforward steps
🍞 Pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a warm sandwich
Ingredients
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half or milk (or a mix)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of nutmeg for warmth
How to Make Panera-Style Broccoli Cheese Soup
Cook the broccoli: Steam or boil the broccoli florets until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Add liquids: Slowly whisk in the broth and half-and-half, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add cheese: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and smooth.
Combine broccoli: Chop some of the cooked broccoli into smaller pieces and add them to the pot for a creamy texture. Add remaining florets for chunkier bites.
Season: Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) to taste. Simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
Serve warm: Ladle into bowls and enjoy with your favorite bread.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheese Soup
Use sharp cheddar for bold, tangy flavor.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with milk.
Blend part of the soup for a creamy base with chunks of broccoli.
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