Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth and creamy goodness of a homemade Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup that rivals the beloved original. This hearty soup, brimming with tender broccoli florets bathed in a velvety cheese-infused broth, is a true embodiment of comfort food at its finest. With each spoonful, you'll be transported to the cozy ambiance of a Panera Bread cafe, savoring the rich flavors and irresistible texture that make this soup an enduring favorite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly evening or served as a starter to impress guests, this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for just one more bowl.
I'm ready for winter to end. Seriously! Just when it starts to warm the next day it snows! It's like one step forward towards spring but two steps back! On one of these chilly evenings I was craving a warm hearty soup! Something to warm me up. This Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup is the perfect recipe!
Everything at Panera is delicious! I have a hard time deciding what to get when I go. Their Broccoli Cheese is just heavenly. Unfortunately Panera isn't very budget friendly. I think making this soup for my entire family costs about as much as a single serving there!
This soup is pretty simple to make. There is a lot of chopping involved but you can save time by buying pre-chopped veggies. The matchstick carrot sticks at the store go perfectly in this recipe. Pair it with your favorite bread. You can make your own or save some time and buy a loaf from the store. I love dipping the bread in the bowl. Technically you aren't licking the bowl clean if you are using bread!
Every member in my family loved the soup. Even the picky little eater that survives by eating mostly cereal! The compliments kept coming and I just sat back and let them! This Broccoli Cheese is definitely going to become a family favorite! Give it a try and let me know how your family liked it! Enjoy!
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1?2 medium chopped onion
- 1?4 cup melted butter
- 1?4 cup flour
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1?2 lb fresh broccoli (about 3 cups), chopped into bite size pieces
- 1 cup carrot chopped or buy match stick carrots
- 1?4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups)
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot sauté onion in 1 tablespoon of butter. Remove from pot and set aside.
- Add the ¼ cup melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.Remember to stir constantly and add the half & half.
- Slowly add the chicken stock and simmer for about 10 minutes.Stirring every couple minutes
- Add the broccoli, carrots and the cooked onions. Cook over low heat 20-25 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.If you like the soup chunky then leave it alone. I like to take a potato masher to the soup and thin it out slightly. Return to low heat and add the cheese. Stir in the nutmeg.
- Pair it with your favorite bread for a perfect hearty dinner!
FAQ's:
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, frozen broccoli can be used as a substitute for fresh broccoli in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain the broccoli before adding it to the soup.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it? Absolutely! This soup reheats well and can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
- Can I freeze this soup? While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Gruyere, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses can work well in this soup.
- How can I make this soup vegetarian? To make this soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also omit the bacon if desired or substitute it with vegetarian bacon bits.
- What can I serve with this soup? This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Can I make this soup gluten-free? Yes, you can make this soup gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a thickening agent. Also, ensure that your broth and cheese are gluten-free.
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of this Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, and let its creamy richness envelop your senses with every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a soul-soothing dinner or shared with loved ones gathered around the table, this soup embodies the essence of comfort and culinary delight. With its comforting warmth and irresistible taste, this homemade rendition is sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, ladle up a bowl, savor the goodness, and revel in the joy of homemade comfort food at its finest.
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