Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
A rich, creamy, one-pot Broccoli Cheddar Soup that tastes just like the Panera Bread original and is ready in only 25 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter This is the flavor base
- 1/2 cup Yellow or White Onion Dice these very small
- 1 cup Shredded Carrots Matchsticks cut into half inch bits
- 2 1/2 cups Broccoli Florets Chop these into tiny pieces
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken Broth Low sodium is a good choice
- 1 cup Milk Skim or fat free works great
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream This makes it extra creamy
- 1/4 cup All Purpose Flour This thickens the soup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher Salt Add more if you like
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Use fresh pepper if you can
- 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Just for a little warmth
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar has the best kick
Instructions
- Soften the Veggies – In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter until bubbling. Add the onions, carrots, and broccoli. Stir for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and onions look clear.
- Make the Base – Slowly pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream while stirring constantly. Sprinkle the flour, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the top.
- Wait for the Thickening – Cook on medium heat, stirring often to prevent clumping or burning, for 10 to 15 minutes until the soup looks thick and shiny.
- Add the Cheese – Turn the heat down to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth. Serve immediately.
Notes
For the best results, grate your own cheese to avoid the grainy texture caused by anti-clumping powders in bagged cheese. Serve in a sourdough bread bowl for the authentic Panera experience!