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Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup


  • Author: Norah
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

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