Homemade Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Nothing beats a warm bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup on a chilly day! This homemade Panera-style version is rich, velvety, and packed with tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make in one pot and tastes just like your favorite bakery café—maybe even better!
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and celery, cooking for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the half-and-half. Stir until smooth.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- For a smoother texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, bread bowls, or crackers.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest texture.
- Don’t boil the soup after adding the cheese, as it may become grainy.
- Add extra broccoli for a heartier soup.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vegetables, this cozy soup is perfect for lunch, dinner, or whenever you’re craving comfort food!