If you’re a fan of warm, comforting dishes, then you’ll adore making your own version of Panera Bread’s beloved broccoli cheddar soup at home. This copycat recipe not only captures the rich creaminess and hearty flavor but also allows you to adjust ingredients to your taste. Imagine savoring a velvety bowl filled with tender broccoli and melted cheese, bringing a taste of the café right into your kitchen.
Moreover, replicating this iconic dish is surprisingly simple, making it a perfect solution for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that’s perfect for pairing with crusty bread or a fresh salad. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to impress your family and friends with this delicious homemade broccoli cheddar delight!
Ingredients:
To create a delicious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s rich and comforting, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– ½ onion, chopped
– ¼ cup melted butter
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups chicken stock
– 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
– 1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
– 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced
– 2 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
– Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Begin by sautéing the onion and celery in butter until tender. Next, whisk in melted butter and flour for a roux. Gradually add chicken stock and milk, stirring until smooth. Then, incorporate your broccoli and carrots, cooking until slightly tender. Finally, stir in the cheese until melted, seasoning to taste.
For a different take on soup, you can explore Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup, another delightful recipe to warm your soul. Enjoy your homemade version of this classic dish!
How to Prepare Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Creating your own delicious version of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is easy and incredibly satisfying. Begin by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Next, stir in ¼ cup of melted butter and whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about two minutes until it’s lightly golden.
Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk and 2 cups of chicken stock, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens. Add the coarsely chopped broccoli florets, matchstick-cut carrots, and thinly sliced celery. Simmer the soup until the vegetables soften, about 10-15 minutes. Finally, stir in 2 ½ cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, mixing until melted and smooth. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. For more cozy soup inspirations, explore our Butternut Squash Soup, a perfect addition to your cold-weather repertoire.
Serving Suggestions for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
When enjoying your homemade Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider pairing it with a few delightful accompaniments for a rounded meal. A crispy baguette or a warm sourdough bread bowl makes for an excellent side, perfect for dipping into the velvety soup. For added nutrition, slice up a vibrant garden salad, featuring greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
You can also serve Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup alongside your broccoli cheddar delight for a comforting duo that warms the heart. The combination of flavors creates a dynamic meal. Don’t forget to check out this recipe for a traditional Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, where you can find methods to enhance the rich taste of your creation: Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Additionally, consider garnishing your soup with a sprinkle of fresh chives or croutons to add a crunchy texture, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Benefits of Making Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home:
Making your own Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home comes with numerous advantages. First and foremost, you can control the ingredients. This means you can use fresh, organic vegetables and adjust the cheese levels to suit your taste. Additionally, homemade soup often contains fewer preservatives and additives, promoting a healthier dining experience. By preparing this delicious dish in your kitchen, you can also save money compared to frequent visits to Panera Bread.
Furthermore, cooking at home allows you to experiment with flavors. You might even consider pairing it with a delightful dish like the Easy Chicken and Broccoli Orzo for a hearty meal. You can try different spices or add extra ingredients to personalize your soup, making it uniquely yours. The satisfaction of creating a comforting bowl of creamy soup from scratch is rewarding and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the warmth of home-cooked goodness with this copycat recipe!
Storage Tips:
To keep your Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips. First, allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This prevents condensation from forming, which can dilute the flavor. You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. To enhance the richness, add a splash of cream or milk when reheating. For a delightful pairing, serve it alongside a warm bowl of Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup. This soup not only complements the broccoli cheddar but also adds variety to your meal!
Variations of Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Explore delightful variations of this beloved dish. For a unique twist, consider adding pasta with the high-protein broccoli pasta for extra heartiness. Additionally, you might try blending in seasonal vegetables or spices to echo your taste preferences. Each variation allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors while keeping meal times exciting and fresh!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are essential for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
To recreate this beloved dish, you’ll need fresh broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, vegetable broth, cream, and a blend of seasonings. It’s crucial to use high-quality cheddar for the best flavor, as it brings out that delightful creaminess.
Can I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth without sacrificing taste. This way, you can enjoy a vegetarian version of the scrumptious Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that still delivers on flavor.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Once prepared, your Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stove, stirring often to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze this soup?
Freezing is possible, yet it may alter the soup’s texture. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a suitable container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly.
What pairs well with broccoli cheddar soup?
This creamy soup goes wonderfully with a crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside the delicious cheesy tomato tortellini soup from this recipe collection, adding variety to your dining experience.
Is it easy to customize Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, customizing this recipe is simple. Feel free to add in other vegetables like carrots or spinach, or even incorporate some cooked chicken for added protein. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile recipe for everyone!
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Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a Delightful Dinner
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Recreate the warm and creamy goodness of Panera’s famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup right at home with this easy copycat recipe.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon butter
½ onion chopped
¼ cup melted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups chicken stock
1 ½ cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets
1 cup matchstick-cut carrots
1 stalk celery thinly sliced
2 ½ cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
salt and ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the melted butter and then add the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
You can use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version. Feel free to adjust the cheese amount for a richer soup.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, broccoli cheddar soup recipe, homemade soup, easy soup recipe