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Panera Broccoli Cheddar Copycat Soup Recipe

This creamy, dreamy broccoli cheddar soup tastes just like the Panera favorite your family loves! It's thick, rich, and packed with tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you need comfort food without leaving the house.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups broccoli florets chopped into small pieces
  • 1 large carrot shredded
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will thicken your soup perfectly!
  3. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still has a little bite.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one cup at a time, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
  6. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. For an extra-smooth texture like Panera's, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some broccoli chunks for texture. Serve hot with crusty bread!