Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. There's something uniquely satisfying about a warm, cheesy bowl of soup, especially when it's reminiscent of the famous Panera's offering. Today, I'll guide you through the steps to replicate this beloved dish right in your kitchen. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to deliver the flavor you've come to expect from Panera.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 large head broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 3⁄4 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
Preparation
Follow these steps to create your soup:
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is foamy:
- Add the diced onion.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Next, we’ll make a roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions, and stir constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Vegetables
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth and half-and-half:
- Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the broccoli and carrot, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese
With the vegetables cooked, it’s time to add the star ingredient:
- Reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
- Add the grated cheese in small batches, stirring constantly until fully melted and integrated into the soup.
- Do not let the soup boil after adding the cheese to prevent it from separating.
Step 5: Blend for Creaminess
To achieve the signature Panera creaminess:
- Remove about one-third of the soup and blend it until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender.
- Return the pureed soup back to the pot and stir to combine.
💡 Note: Be cautious when blending hot soup. Allow it to cool slightly, and if using a regular blender, blend in small batches with the lid slightly open to let steam escape.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some ways to serve your homemade Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or a baguette to soak up every last drop.
- As an Appetizer: It makes a delightful starter for any meal, especially in the colder months.
- With a Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete, comforting dinner.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 15g |
This Creamy Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is not only delicious but also brings the warmth and comfort of a beloved restaurant classic into your home. The ingredients are simple, the steps are straightforward, and the result is unbeatable. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply warm up on a chilly day, this soup will not disappoint. Enjoy the rich flavors, creamy texture, and the delightful combination of vegetables and cheese that make this soup a timeless favorite.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
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Yes, you can! This soup reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep or for serving at events. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What if I want to make it vegetarian?
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Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Also, ensure the cheese you use is vegetarian; most cheddar cheeses are, but it’s always good to double-check for rennet-free options.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
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If your soup is too thin, you can either blend more of the soup to give it a creamier texture, or make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and add it to the soup, cooking until thickened.
