Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup remains a favorite comfort meal. This rich and creamy soup delivers bold flavors and simple preparation. It offers warm satisfaction and works perfectly for weeknight dinners. With fresh vegetables and sharp cheddar, it creates a nourishing and indulgent dish.
Why This Broccoli Cheddar Soup Stands Out
This recipe brings together creamy textures and vibrant vegetables. It uses basic pantry ingredients and transforms them into a flavorful meal. The smooth broth blends beautifully with the tender broccoli. Every spoonful offers satisfying warmth. Even picky eaters enjoy its cheesy richness.
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
You only need a few fresh ingredients to create this hearty soup. Butter and onion form the base. Flour thickens the broth while cream adds silky depth. Chicken stock enhances the savory profile. Broccoli and carrots introduce color and nutrients. Sharp cheddar melts into the mixture and creates a bold, creamy finish. A touch of nutmeg deepens the flavor and adds a subtle warmth.
How to Make This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Melt and Sauté for the Perfect Base
Start by melting butter in a Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion. Let it soften until fragrant. Sprinkle flour over the mixture. Stir well to create a smooth roux. This technique builds the ideal foundation. It also ensures a thick and creamy texture.
Build a Rich and Flavorful Broth
whisk in the half-and-half and chicken stock. Stir until fully blended. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer. This helps the soup develop its creamy consistency. It also creates a balanced and velvety broth.
Add Fresh Vegetables for Texture
Add the chopped broccoli and the julienned carrots. Keep the heat on medium-low. Allow the vegetables to cook until tender. This usually takes about 20 minutes. The vegetables soften beautifully without losing their vibrant color. They give the soup a hearty and satisfying bite.
Finish with Sharp Cheddar and Seasoning
Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper. Blend a small portion of the soup if you prefer a smoother texture. Return the blended mix to the pot. Keep the heat low. Stir in the sharp cheddar until melted. Add the optional nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Avoid high heat to prevent graininess.
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Meal
Serve this soup hot with crusty bread. The combination creates the perfect comfort meal. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad. The creamy soup complements crisp vegetables well. It works beautifully as a starter or as a main dish.
Nutritional Breakdown
Each serving offers a comforting balance of protein and vegetables. It provides about 413 calories and 17 grams of protein. The soup also includes healthy fiber from the broccoli and carrots. Although rich and creamy, it offers satisfying nourishment.
Enjoy the Best Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup brings warmth and satisfaction. It is easy to prepare and full of comforting flavor. With fresh ingredients and smooth texture, it makes an ideal dinner. This recipe also works well for meal prep and reheats beautifully. Enjoy this classic soup anytime you crave a cozy and hearty meal.