Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This rich and creamy soup is filled with tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, making it perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings. Whether you serve it in a bread bowl or with a side of crackers, this delightful dish will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe allows anyone to create a delicious homemade soup.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter, main dish, or even in a bread bowl for that bakery-style experience.
- Comforting Classic: Perfect for fall and winter, this soup brings warmth and coziness to any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, it’s a nourishing choice that can be enjoyed guilt-free.
Tools and Preparation
To make this tasty Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your cooking process is seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Ladle
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps to mix ingredients thoroughly, especially when adding broth to avoid lumps in the soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Liquid Components
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
For Seasoning and Cheese
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Garnish
- Freshly chopped chives
How to Make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots. Cook until softened, which takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Broccoli
Stir in the broccoli florets. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Sprinkle in the flour. Stir well to coat the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes while stirring frequently.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Add the Milk and Cheese
Once simmering, stir in the whole milk along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Simmer
Reduce heat to low. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the broccoli is tender and the soup thickens.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve warm, preferably in a bread bowl for that authentic Panera experience!
How to Serve Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Serving Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether you choose a simple garnish or a special side, these suggestions will elevate your meal.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Topped with Garnishes
- Chopped Chives: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for added color and flavor.
- Extra Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top for extra cheesiness.
In a Bread Bowl
- Sourdough Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a sourdough bread bowl for an authentic Panera experience.
- Whole Wheat Bread Bowl: A healthier option that still provides the perfect vessel for your soup.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
How to Perfect Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To achieve the best version of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider some helpful tips that can make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese enhance the overall taste of your soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference.
- Blend for Smoothness: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before serving.
- Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to simmer will deepen its flavors and improve consistency.
- Experiment with Spices: Add additional spices like nutmeg or paprika for unique flavor profiles.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in airtight containers; they store well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Best Side Dishes for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing side dishes with your delicious Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that never goes out of style. Use your favorite bread and cheese combination.
- Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, veggies, or meat add nutrition and variety.
- Quiche Lorraine: This savory pie filled with bacon and cheese complements the richness of the soup well.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a healthy, flavorful addition to your meal.
- Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance the heaviness of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that could impact the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the Sautéing Step: Failing to sauté the onions and carrots properly can result in a bland soup. Always cook them until softened to enhance their flavors.
- Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can lead to clumping. Gradually stir in the cheese for a smooth, creamy texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can throw off your soup’s balance. Measure everything accurately for the best results.
- Ignoring Broccoli Size: Cutting broccoli into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Make sure to chop them into uniform pieces for even tenderness.
- Overcooking the Soup: Cooking too long can make broccoli mushy. Keep an eye on it, especially during simmering, for perfect texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It will maintain quality for about 2-3 months.
Reheating Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup so special?
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is loved for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for any chilly day.
Can I customize my Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach, or adjust the cheese type for different flavors.
How do I make my soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, try adding more flour when making the roux or blending part of the soup and mixing it back in.
What should I serve with Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Both options complement its rich flavor beautifully.
Is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
This recipe contains all-purpose flour, which is not gluten-free. You can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Final Thoughts
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and joy with every bowl. Its creamy consistency and cheesy goodness make it perfect for customization—add your favorite herbs or spices! Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. This creamy, rich soup features tender broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a delightful blend that warms your soul. Whether served in a crusty bread bowl or paired with crispy crackers, this homemade version captures all the charm of the beloved café classic. With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this satisfying dish in your kitchen, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and carrots; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in broccoli florets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over vegetables; stir to coat and cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add vegetable broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps; bring to simmer.
- Pour in whole milk along with seasonings; gradually mix in cheddar until melted and smooth.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing/Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
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