Okay, friend, let’s talk comfort food. I’m talking about that warm, cheesy hug you get from a steaming bowl of soup on a chilly day. And honestly, nothing hits the spot quite like a creamy broccoli cheese soup. I’ve had a serious love affair with Panera’s version for years, but let’s be real, those trips can get expensive. So, I took it upon myself to crack the code and create a copycat recipe that’s just as good – maybe even better! If you love a good cheddar potato soup as much as I do, you are going to fall head over heals for this Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe. It’s surprisingly easy, unbelievably flavorful, and my kids *beg* for it. Trust me; you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

What is Panera Broccoli Soup Recipe?

Think of the Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe as the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. It’s essentially a creamy, cheesy soup loaded with tender broccoli florets. The base is a velvety smooth sauce thickened with a roux (don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds!), and the flavor comes from a generous amount of cheddar cheese. Some people like it chunky, some like it smooth, but at its heart, it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical. The slight sharpness of the cheddar is balanced perfectly by the mild broccoli, and the creamy texture just melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out.

Why you will love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe isn’t just good; it’s *amazing*.

Flavor Explosion:Why is taste king? The combination of creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and a hint of savory broth creates flavor. Is it addictive? I sneak a spoonful every time I walk past the pot.
Seriously Simple: What isWhat are some of the best soups to make? I can whip up a batch in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I always have the ingredients on hand which is why this is a go to recipe for me.
Budget friendlyEating out can be a drain on the wallet, but making soup at home is incredibly cost-effective. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge.
Versatile:As a side dish, or even main course, you can serve this soup with any of the following ingredients. I love pairing it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal. What I love most about this is that you can customize it to your taste. Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Want it smoother? Blend it before serving. I personally love to add some diced ham or bacon for extra flavor and protein, talk about taking it. What is the next step in life?

If you’re a fan of creamy soups, you might also enjoy my recipe for Creamy Tomato Soup or Butternut Sour. What is Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe for? What is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and ease?

How do I make Panera Broccoli Soup?

Quick Overview

Making this Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is a breeze! First, you’ll create a simple roux with butter and flour to thicken the soup. Then, you’ll add your broth, milk, and seasonings. Next comes the broccoli and cheese, and a little simmer to meld all the flavors together. The secret? Using a good quality cheddar and not overcooking the broccoli so that it still has a slight bite. It’s so simple, and so rewarding.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Use a good quality butter for the best flavor.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps to thicken the soup.
4 cups chicken broth: You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
I prefer whole milk for the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even almond milk (I tested it and it was delicious). Is it really that good?
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
What is the best way to add nutmeg to a soup?
4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, just make sure they are cut into bite-sized pieces.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild, depending on your preference. I always use extra sharp!

Optional Add-ins:

Diced ham or bacon: For added flavor and protein.
Red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat.
What are the benefits of shredded carrots?

What is the step-

Step 1: Melt Butter & Make Roux

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Once melted, whisk in the flour until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup. Make sure you don’t brown the butter or flour, you just want to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 2: Add Broth & Milk

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps that may form. Then, stir in the milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. I like my broccoli to have a bite, so I don’t overcook it. If you prefer softer broccoli, cook it for a few minutes longer.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese

How do you stir the cheddar cheese into a large pot? What makes soup smooth and creamy? If the cheese doesn’t melt completely, you can return the pot to low heat and stir until it’s melted. Do not boil the soup after adding the cheese, as this can cause it to separate.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

How do you serve soup in a bowl? What’s a good garnish for shredded cheese? Greek yogurt or Greek yoghurt. I love to serve mine with a crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwich.

What should I serve it with?

What are some good recipes for panera Broccoli soup? What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

With a Grilled Cheese Sandwich:What is the ultimate comfort food? The creamy soup and cheesy sandwich are a match made in heaven.
With a Crusty Bread: What is itWhat is the best bread to eat with soup?
As a Starter:Serve soup as a starter before preparing for dinner.
As a Side Dish: How do I makeWhat are some good side dishes to serve with a salad?
What’s the best way to serve baked potatoes? Top a baked potato with the soup for a hearty and satisfying meal.

My family loves to have this soup with a side of cornbread or even just some simple crackers. It’s also great with a side salad for a lighter meal. One of my favorite family traditions is to make this soup on a cold winter night and enjoy it while watching a movie. It’s the perfect way to warm up and spend quality time together.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

After making this Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

Use Good Quality Cheese: The quality of the cheese will greatly affect the flavor of the soup. I recommend using a good quality cheddar cheese for the best results. I always go with extra sharp.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and lose its flavor. Cook the broccoli until it’s tender-crisp for the best texture. I’ve definitely made this mistake before, and it’s not pretty.
Don’t Boil the Soup After Adding Cheese: Boiling the soup after adding the cheese can cause it to separate and become grainy. Remove the pot from the heat before adding the cheese and stir until it’s completely melted.
Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour to the roux. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more broth or milk. Just adjust a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or onions, to the soup. You can also add diced ham or bacon for extra flavor and protein. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results.
Blend it for Extra Creaminess: If you prefer an ultra-smooth soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before serving. Just be careful not to over-blend it, as this can make it gummy. I usually blend about half of the soup for the perfect creamy texture.

I’ve learned these tips through trial and error, and they’ve made a huge difference in the quality of my soup. I hope they help you perfect your Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here are a few tips for storing and reheating:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating on the Stovetop: To reheat the soup on the stovetop, simply place it in a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. Be careful not to boil the soup, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
Reheating in the Microwave: To reheat the soup in the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s heated through.

The key to maintaining the quality of the soup is to store it properly and reheat it gently. I always make sure to let the soup cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. This helps to prevent the formation of ice crystals, which can affect the texture of the soup. I’ve also found that reheating the soup on the stovetop is the best way to maintain its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using one that already contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The flavor will be nearly identical, I promise!

Do I have to use cheddar cheese?

Nope! While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda for a unique twist. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Definitely! The soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. I often make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week.

How can I make this soup even creamier?

For an extra creamy soup, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or heavy cream at the end. You can also use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before serving. Be careful not to over-blend it, as this can make it gummy.

What if my soup is too thick?

If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. I usually add a little at a time until it’s just right.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to recipe for a creamy, comforting Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe that’s even better than the original (if I do say so myself!). It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a warm and satisfying meal, this is it! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to buying soup at the store again. If you love this soup, you might also enjoy my recipe for Creamy Tomato Soup or Butternut Squash Soup. Now, I’m off to enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup myself. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know if you try this recipe and how it goes!