Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
If you love the creamy, comforting broccoli cheddar soup from Panera Bread, this copycat recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It delivers the same rich, cheesy flavor and smooth texture, but it’s made fresh at home with simple ingredients. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or cozy weekends, this soup is filling, delicious, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this copycat broccoli cheddar soup, gather basic pantry and fridge staples. You’ll need butter, onion, garlic, all-purpose flour, milk, chicken or vegetable broth, fresh broccoli florets, grated carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese. Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg help balance the flavors. Using freshly grated cheese is important, as it melts more smoothly and gives the soup a creamy finish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Start by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to form a roux, cooking for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in milk and broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens slightly. Add chopped broccoli and grated carrots, then cook until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. Reduce the heat and gradually stir in the cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
Tips for the Best Flavor
For a soup that tastes just like the restaurant version, don’t rush the cheese-melting step—low heat prevents grainy texture. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend half of it using an immersion blender and then mix it back in. For extra richness, a splash of heavy cream can be added at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup hot with crusty bread, a bread bowl, or a simple side salad. It also stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep.
This homemade version proves that you can enjoy restaurant-style comfort food anytime—fresh, affordable, and full of flavor. 🍲🧀