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Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 4 cups frozen broccoli florets
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded from a block
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat and whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and half and half until smooth.
  3. Add the broccoli and simmer 15 minutes until tender.
  4. Blend with an immersion blender to your preferred consistency.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar a handful at a time until melted. Season and serve.

Notes

Shred sharp cheddar from a block - pre-shredded bags have a coating that can make the soup grainy. Half and half is closer to Panera's richness; heavy cream makes it too heavy. Panera's original is only partially blended and also includes carrots and a touch of nutmeg. Frozen broccoli releases more water, so compensate with seasoning.