Print

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Best Panera Copycat Recipe

creamy broccoli cheddar soup - featured image
Print Recipe

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting, cheesy hug in a bowl inspired by Panera’s classic. It’s quick, easy, and packed with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a velvety base—perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% for lighter option)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small (about 1 large head or 10 oz)
  • 1 large carrot, shredded
  • 1 stalk celery, finely diced (optional)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop broccoli into small florets. Shred the carrot and dice the onion and celery.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour flavor.
  4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once incorporated, add chicken or vegetable broth. Whisk until silky.
  5. Stir in broccoli florets and shredded carrot. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until broccoli is tender.
  6. Use an immersion blender to puree about half the soup directly in the pot, leaving some chunks for texture. If using a standard blender, cool soup for 5 minutes before blending in batches.
  7. Lower heat and add grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheddar or black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, or in a bread bowl.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheddar cheese for maximum melt. To make gluten-free, substitute flour with 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cold milk. The soup thickens as it cools; add a splash of broth or milk to loosen when reheating. Watch the heat when melting cheese—keep it low to prevent separation. Customize with extra veggies, different cheeses, or add cooked chicken for protein.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, Panera copycat, creamy soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, vegetarian option, gluten-free option, cheesy soup, family dinner, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup-best-panera-copycat-recipe/