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Creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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This creamy copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup recipe delivers that velvety, cheesy texture and bold flavor without the fuss. It’s quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients for a comforting bowl that rivals the restaurant version.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 1 cup carrots, shredded or finely diced
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  4. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add the milk and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edges) for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Add the broccoli and shredded carrots. Simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is tender but still bright green.
  7. Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend about half the soup to create a creamy body while leaving some texture. (If using a regular blender, blend in batches, filling no more than halfway and holding the lid down with a towel.)
  8. Return the pot to low heat and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning.
  10. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to thicken and flavors to meld.

Notes

Always shred your own cheese to avoid graininess. Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation. The half-blend step is key for creamy texture without extra cream. Season lightly before adding cheese, then adjust at the end. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp cold water).

Nutrition

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

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