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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Panera Style

creamy broccoli cheddar soup Panera style - featured image
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A rich, velvety broccoli cheddar soup inspired by Panera, perfect for winter comfort with tender broccoli and sharp white cheddar in a creamy base.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
  • 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Wash and chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets (about 4 cups). If using frozen, thaw slightly and drain excess water. Set aside.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 1/4 cup all-purpose flour over the onion mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste until thick and pasty.
  4. Slowly whisk in 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, dissolving any lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add broccoli florets and simmer until tender but still bright green, about 10 minutes.
  6. Using an immersion blender, puree about half the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, puree, and return to the pot.
  7. Stir in 2 cups whole milk and 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional). Warm gently without boiling. Gradually add 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  8. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. Let warm through for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

Do not boil the soup after adding cheese to prevent separation. Stir cheese in slowly over low heat. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting. If soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or cornstarch. For vegan, use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, creamy soup, Panera style soup, winter comfort food, easy soup recipe, homemade soup

Find it online: https://yumyep.com/creamy-broccoli-cheddar-soup-panera-style-recipe-easy-homemade-and-perfect-for-winter/