Description
This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with tender broccoli and melted sharp cheddar cheese. Made with fresh vegetables and a few simple ingredients, this comforting soup is perfect for a cozy meal at home. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a warm roll for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons butter (cut into chunks)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and julienned, 1 heaping cup total)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced, 1 heaping cup total)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 16 ounces chicken stock or broth
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a Dutch oven or large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Add the flour and stir until the vegetables are coated. Gradually add the milk, stirring after each addition. Then, add the chicken stock or broth.
- Simmer: Turn the heat to medium-high. When the mixture just begins to bubble, lower the heat to medium-low and let it cook, covered, for 15 minutes. Stir a few times throughout.
- Add the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets and simmer, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a smoother soup consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture.
- For a chunkier consistency, serve as is.
- To make this gluten-free, omit the flour and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the soup.
- Feel free to add cauliflower, mushrooms, or green peppers for variety.
- You can substitute olive oil for the butter if you prefer.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Heavy cream can be used to replace the milk for a thicker, richer soup.
- Bone broth can be used in place of chicken stock to add extra nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Broccoli Cheese Soup, Copycat Panera Soup, Comfort Soup, Cheddar Soup, Creamy Soup