Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Creamy Restaurant Favorite Made at Home

Craving that iconic Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup but don’t want to leave your house? This copycat recipe brings the beloved restaurant favorite right to your kitchen. Perfect for cold winter days or whenever you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness, this homemade version of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup delivers all the flavors you love at a fraction of the cost.

Why This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe Works

Making broccoli cheddar soup at home might seem daunting, but this recipe breaks it down into simple, manageable steps. The result is a velvety smooth soup that rivals Panera’s version, packed with tender broccoli florets and rich, melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the original or just looking for a satisfying soup recipe, this copycat version won’t disappoint.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To achieve that signature Panera taste, you’ll need:

• Fresh broccoli florets (the star of our soup)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (preferably freshly grated)
• Half-and-half (for that perfect creamy texture)
• Yellow onion and carrots (for depth of flavor)
• Chicken or vegetable broth (as the flavorful base)
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Butter (for the roux and sautéing)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg)

How to Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
• 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat
• Add diced onions and grated carrots
• Cook until vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes)
• Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly

1. Create the Soup Base

• Gradually whisk in half-and-half and broth
• Bring mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently
• Cook until slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes)

1. Add Broccoli

• Add chopped broccoli florets
• Simmer until broccoli is tender (8-10 minutes)

1. Finish the Soup

• Reduce heat to low
• Gradually stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted
• Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste
• Adjust consistency with additional broth if needed

Expert Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making restaurant-quality Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home requires attention to detail. Here are some pro tips:

1. Cheese Selection: Use good quality, sharp cheddar cheese and grate it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s texture.
2. Broccoli Size: Cut broccoli florets into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easier eating.
3. Temperature Control: Add cheese off the heat or at very low temperature to prevent curdling.
4. Consistency: The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not too heavy. Adjust with additional broth as needed.

Storage and Reheating

This copycat Panera soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore the original consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup just like Panera does:

• In a bread bowl for the full restaurant experience
• With crusty bread for dipping
• Topped with extra shredded cheese
• Alongside a fresh green salad

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe aims to replicate the classic Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you can make these adjustments:

• Use milk instead of half-and-half for a lighter version
• Add cauliflower for extra vegetables
• Make it vegetarian with vegetable broth
• Experiment with different cheese combinations

Why Make This Soup at Home?

Creating copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home offers several advantages:

• Cost-effective compared to restaurant prices
• Control over ingredients and portions
• Ability to adjust seasonings to taste
• Fresh, made-from-scratch quality
• Perfect for meal prep and freezing

This homemade version of Panera’s famous soup brings restaurant quality right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food any time the craving strikes. Whether served as a main course or starter, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.