Introduction
As the brisk air settles in and the leaves dance their way to the ground, there’s nothing quite like the embrace of a warm bowl of soup to make you feel at home. Today, I’m thrilled to share my cherished recipe for Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, a comforting experience. Imagine curling up with this creamy delight on a chilly evening, the aroma of sharp cheddar and fresh broccoli wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in nostalgia and warmth, just like those cozy evenings spent with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Broccoli Cheese Soup has more than just flavor; it carries the richness of family traditions and the joy of sharing meals. Here’s why it’ll become your go-to recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this homemade recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting: Every spoonful feels like a warm embrace, making it an indulgent treat on cold days.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a delightful way to sneak in some veggies, and kids love its creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
- Versatile: Perfect as a cozy favorite for weeknight dinners or as a festive dish during the holidays.
- Leftover Love: It keeps wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy it for days after cooking!
Ingredients with Notes
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup:
- 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen, either works wonderfully to bring that vibrant green and fresh flavor.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Sweet onions add depth. Consider shallots for a milder taste.
- 1/4 cup butter: A classic base for that rich, buttery flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is essential for thickening.
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth: Homemade or store-bought, choose a high-quality option for the best taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: For that luscious, silky texture. You can swap Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Choose a good quality cheese for a vibrant flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key, so don’t forget to adjust to your liking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a more potent flavor.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner without taking too much time out of your day.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. You’ll notice the sweetness of the onion filling your kitchen with warmth.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle in the flour and stir for another minute, allowing it to cook lightly. This step is where your soup will start to thicken.
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Add Broth and Cream: Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir until well combined. Keep stirring and you’ll notice the sauce thickening.
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Blend in the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the broccoli to become tender, about 10 minutes.
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Cheesy Goodness: Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well mixed and heated through, serve hot. You might want to top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper.
Tips and Variations
- For a healthier twist, use reduced-fat cheese or replace half of the cream with almond milk.
- Add cooked chicken for a protein boost or sautéed mushrooms for added depth.
- Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or top with fresh herbs for a bright finish!
Serving Ideas
Imagine this creamy Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup alongside warm, crusty bread or buttery grilled cheese sandwiches; it’s a classic pairing that will transport you to your favorite café. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you just need a bowl of comfort, this soup will never disappoint.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat—adding a splash of broth or cream can revive its creamy texture. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave a bit of space in the container for expansion.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- For a smoother texture, blend your soup in batches using an immersion blender or regular blender after cooking.
- To enhance the flavor, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t skip the seasoning step; seasoning at each stage enhances flavors dramatically!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works just as well; just give it a little extra cooking time until tender. -
What can I substitute for the cream?
For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or full-fat milk, but keep in mind this will alter the creaminess. -
How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a delightful alternative that maintains the creamy essence. -
Is it okay to freeze broccoli cheese soup?
Yes, it freezes beautifully, just remember to leave space in your container! -
What can I serve with broccoli cheese soup?
Crusty bread, salad, or a sandwich are all delightful pairings!
Conclusion
There’s something genuinely magical about sharing a steaming bowl of Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup with family and friends. With each spoonful, you’re not just feeding bellies; you’re filling hearts with comfort, warmth, and a sense of nostalgia. I invite you to try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and allow its delightful essence to become a part of your own family traditions. Here’s to cozy meals and cherished memories!
Contents
Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, either works wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup diced onion Sweet onions add depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Base Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter Classic base for a rich flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Essential for thickening.
Liquids
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth Homemade or store-bought, a high-quality option is best.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can swap Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Cheese and Seasoning
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Choose good quality cheese for vibrant flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Adjust to your liking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can substitute for a stronger flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Cooking
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir for another minute to cook lightly.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream.
- Stir until well combined; keep stirring to notice the sauce thickening.
- Add the broccoli florets, bring to a gentle simmer, and allow to become tender (about 10 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Once well mixed and heated through, serve hot.