Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this Cheddar Broccoli Soup is a comforting classic you can make at home! Loaded with tender broccoli, fresh vegetables, and extra sharp cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for cozy lunches or weeknight dinners. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a family favorite in no time!
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 395kcal
Ingredients
- 6 Cups Broccoli (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 Large Onion (chopped)
- 3 Carrots (chopped)
- ¾ Stick Butter
- ⅓ Cup Flour
- 4 Cups Chicken Stock
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- 1 Cup Whole Milk
- 1 (8 oz) Brick Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- Salt and Black Ground Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop 6 cups of broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice 1 large onion and chop 3 carrots into small pieces.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large pot, melt ¾ stick of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Make the roux: Sprinkle ⅓ cup of flour over the cooked vegetables and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the liquid: Gradually whisk in 4 cups of chicken stock, stirring to prevent lumps. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting it thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add the broccoli: Stir in the broccoli pieces, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Incorporate the dairy: Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, mixing until smooth. Gradually stir in the shredded 8 oz brick of extra sharp cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding more.
- Season and finish: Taste the soup and season with salt and black ground pepper as needed. Simmer for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side!
Nutrition
Calories: 395kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 398mg | Potassium: 684mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 6653IU | Vitamin C: 83mg | Calcium: 153mg | Iron: 2mg