Description
This Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of goodness, filled with tender broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines a velvety roux base with savory chicken stock and a hint of seasoning to bring out the ultimate flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Liquid Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups chicken stock
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup matchstick carrots
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
Cheese & Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Roux: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and onions, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken stock, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue stirring until the soup base begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli florets, matchstick carrots, and finely chopped celery to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheese and Season: Lower the heat and gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring continuously until the cheese has fully melted into the soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Final Cooking and Serve: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to blend all the flavors perfectly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the cheese.
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
- You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more chicken stock if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Panera Bread Copycat, Creamy Broccoli Soup, Comfort Food Soup, Cheddar Cheese Soup, Homemade Broccoli Soup