Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup has become a staple in American comfort food. Its creamy texture, savory broth, and rich, cheesy flavor make it a favorite in many households. This dish is not only satisfying but also very versatile, perfect for chilly days or when you need something hearty and nutritious. The combination of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a smooth soup base creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Originally served in Panera Bread’s signature sourdough bread bowl, this soup has quickly become a beloved recipe people want to recreate at home.
In this guide, we’ll teach you how to make Panera Bread’s famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup from scratch. Whether you’re looking to follow the original recipe or customize it to fit your dietary needs, this step-by-step guide has you covered.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces
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3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
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1 ½ cups whole milk
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
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½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Substitutions:
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Broccoli: You can use frozen broccoli florets in place of fresh broccoli for convenience.
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Broth: Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan option.
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Cheese: You can use mild cheddar cheese or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
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Cream: For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
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In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
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Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cook the Broccoli
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Add the broccoli florets to the pot, stirring for a couple of minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
3. Blend the Soup
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Once the broccoli is soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Be careful with hot liquids!
4. Add Dairy and Cheese
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Return the soup to low heat and add the milk, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
5. Season to Taste
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Taste your soup and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (optional). Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
6. Simmer
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Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Avoid Over-Blending: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of the mixture or blend it for a shorter time.
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Use a Cheesecloth for Smoothness: If you want an ultra-smooth texture, strain the soup after blending to remove any small bits of broccoli.
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Use Fresh, Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and will give your soup the best texture.
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Watch the Heat: When adding cheese, ensure the soup is on low heat to avoid curdling.
Variations and Customizations
Vegetarian Option:
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Simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth and opt for a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk to make it fully vegetarian.
Gluten-Free:
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This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no substitutions are necessary.
Low-Carb:
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For a low-carb version, substitute the broccoli with cauliflower, and skip the milk and cream for a lighter soup base.
Vegan:
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To make this soup vegan, use a dairy-free milk alternative like coconut or almond milk and substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese.
Serving Suggestions
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Sourdough Bowl: For the classic Panera Bread experience, serve the soup in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl.
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Toppings: Garnish with additional shredded cheese, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
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Sides: Pair the soup with a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Beverages: Serve with a glass of white wine, iced tea, or a refreshing sparkling water.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 320 kcal
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Protein: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 21g
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Fats: 24g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugars: 7g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat when ready to serve.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing, particularly with the cheese.
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If the soup becomes too thick, simply add more milk or broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you’ve learned how to make Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home, we hope you enjoy this comforting, creamy dish with your loved ones. It’s an easy and satisfying recipe that can be tailored to your taste and dietary preferences. Give it a try today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your results or ask any questions in the comments below.
