Broccoli Cheddar Soup like Panera Bread

Introduction

There are few dishes as comforting and soul-warming as a creamy bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Inspired by the famous version from Panera Bread, this recipe is the perfect combination of tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and velvety cheddar cheese blended into a smooth, rich base. Each spoonful is hearty, cheesy, and deeply satisfying—ideal for cold days, quick dinners, or when you just want a cozy meal in a bowl.

What makes this soup stand out is its ability to balance fresh vegetables with indulgent creaminess. The broccoli adds nutrition and freshness, the carrots provide a subtle sweetness, and the cheddar cheese gives the soup that irresistible tangy richness. When paired with warm crusty bread or served in a bread bowl, it becomes a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes a classic comfort food and makes it easy to prepare at home without sacrificing flavor. The combination of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and wholesome. I especially love how versatile it is—you can keep it smooth and creamy or leave chunks of broccoli for extra texture.

Another reason I love it is the nostalgia factor. It instantly reminds me of cozy café lunches and the joy of dipping a warm piece of bread into a hot bowl of cheesy soup. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl, and here’s why it deserves a spot on your must-try list:

1. Café-Style Flavor at Home – It brings the beloved Panera Bread experience straight to your kitchen without the price tag or trip outside. Every spoonful has that signature cheesy, creamy taste you crave.
2. Perfect Balance of Indulgence & Nutrition – While rich and creamy, the broccoli and carrots make it feel wholesome and nourishing. It’s a dish that satisfies cravings while sneaking in veggies.
3. Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages – Kids love it for the cheesy goodness, adults appreciate the cozy comfort, and it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters.
4. Customizable & Flexible – Whether you want it chunky or smooth, mild or spicy, vegetarian or even vegan, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.
5. Ideal for Every Season – In winter, it warms you from the inside out, and in summer, it’s light enough to pair with a salad or sandwich.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories per serving: ~320 kcal
  (Calories may vary depending on cheese, cream, and serving size.)

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for lighter version)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth)
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for extra richness)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
2. Make the Roux:
   Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquid Base:
   Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Then add half-and-half, stirring constantly.
4. Cook Vegetables:
   Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
5. Blend (Optional):
   For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part (or all) of the soup. Leave chunks if you prefer a rustic texture.
6. Add Cheese:
   Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Do not boil after adding cheese.
7. Taste and Adjust:
   Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve hot in bowls with crusty bread, garlic bread, or sourdough rolls.
• For the true Panera experience, serve in a hollowed-out bread bowl.
• Garnish with extra shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Recipe Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese (pre-shredded has anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly).
• If soup is too thick, add more broth or milk. If too thin, simmer longer.
• Don’t overcook broccoli—it should be tender but still bright green.
• Stir continuously when adding cheese to prevent curdling.

Variations

• Healthier Version: Use milk instead of cream, and reduce cheese slightly.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes.
• Low-Carb: Substitute carrots with cauliflower.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut milk, vegetable broth, and vegan cheddar cheese.
• Extra Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or ham.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. (Reheat gently—dairy may separate, so stir well.)

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Whisk (for smooth roux)
• Immersion blender (optional, for creamy texture)

Conclusion

Broccoli Cheddar Soup like Panera Bread is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and loaded with vegetables. It’s a dish that works for weeknight dinners, weekend indulgence, or even meal prepping. With its café-style appeal and customizable flavors, this recipe is a must-have in your cooking collection.

Once you make it at home, you’ll realize just how easy it is to enjoy your favorite Panera classic without ever leaving your kitchen.

Print Recipe

Broccoli Cheddar Soup like Panera Bread

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: American Courses: Soups & Drinks

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Description

There are few dishes as comforting and soul-warming as a creamy bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Inspired by the famous version from Panera Bread, this recipe is the perfect combination of tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and velvety cheddar cheese blended into a smooth, rich base.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for lighter version)
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for warmth)
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for extra richness)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics : In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
2. Make the Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Liquid Base: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Then add half-and-half, stirring constantly.
4. Cook Vegetables: Add chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and nutmeg. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
5. Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree part (or all) of the soup. Leave chunks if you prefer a rustic texture.
6. Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Do not boil after adding cheese.
7. Taste and Adjust: Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.

Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera-Style)