There’s something magical about a bowl of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that warms the heart and soul. Picture this: a creamy concoction bubbling away, filled with tender broccoli florets and melted cheddar cheese, all coaxing you into a cozy embrace with every spoonful. creamy chicken soup alternative The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug from an old friend, reminding you that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Cabbage Soup Recipe recipe.
Now, let’s be honest—who hasn’t experienced that moment of panic when the weather turns chilly and you realize you’ve got nothing comforting to eat? Cue the dramatic music! But fear not! This Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe will not only save your day but also become a staple for those chilly evenings or when you’re just feeling like a bowl of happiness is in order. savory brunch option So grab your favorite spoon, and let’s dive into this creamy goodness!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful soup is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its rich flavor profile combines the earthiness of broccoli with sharp cheddar, resulting in sheer bliss.
- The vibrant green color paired with yellow cheese makes it visually stunning in any bowl.
- Versatile enough to enjoy as a meal or as an appetizer alongside crusty bread.
Ingredients for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Broccoli: Use about 4 cups of chopped broccoli florets for the best texture and flavor; fresh is key!
- Carrots: Two medium carrots, peeled and diced, add sweetness and color to your soup.
- Onion: One small onion, diced finely, brings depth to the flavor profile.
- Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic elevate the taste; fresh garlic makes all the difference!
- Vegetable Broth: About 4 cups; use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
- Heavy Cream: One cup creates that luxurious creamy texture we crave; don’t skimp on this one!
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Three cups of sharp cheddar cheese will ensure maximum cheesiness; go big or go home!
- Salt & Pepper: To taste; these are essential for enhancing all those beautiful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping your broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice your carrots and onion while you’re at it. This might take some time but think of it as a mini workout – those veggies won’t chop themselves!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle some olive oil and toss in your onions and garlic. Sauté them for about five minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. You want your kitchen smelling like a fancy restaurant at this point.
Step 3: Add Veggies & Broth
Stir in the chopped broccoli and carrots into the pot. Pour in your vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about ten minutes or until those veggies are just tender enough to poke with a fork.
Step 4: Cream It Up
Turn down the heat slightly and stir in that heavy cream like it’s crème de la crème (because it totally is). Allow the mixture to heat through for another five minutes but don’t let it boil again—nobody likes curdled cream!
Step 5: Melt in Cheese
Gradually add in three cups of shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into that heavenly broth. This is where dreams come true folks!
Step 6: Season & Serve
Taste test your masterpiece! Add salt and pepper according to your preference, then ladle that glorious soup into bowls. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—just trust me on this one!
And there you have it! A bowl of homemade Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup that rivals anything you’d get from their café—plus no judgment for eating straight from the pot! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delicious Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is not just about taste; it’s about bringing comfort to the table.
- Rich, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for cold days or when you need a cozy meal.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add chopped broccoli and carrots, allowing them to soften. Pour in vegetable broth and let it simmer while you prepare the cheese mixture. Finally, blend everything together for that dreamy consistency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the cheese; sharp cheddar adds a nice kick! For a twist, toss in some cooked bacon bits or a splash of hot sauce for heat. You could even try adding other veggies like cauliflower or spinach.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible; nobody wants soup explosions!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect consistency, blend only half of the soup and stir it back in for a delightful texture.
- Use fresh broccoli for better flavor and color.
- Always taste before serving; seasoning can elevate your dish significantly!
Sometimes I think my friends come over just for this soup—like moths drawn to a cozy flame! One time, I made it for a gathering and nearly had to fight off someone who wanted to drink it straight from the pot!
FAQs :
What is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup made of?
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup features a creamy base made from sharp cheddar cheese, fresh broccoli, and rich vegetable broth. The soup often includes ingredients like carrots and onions, adding depth to its flavor. perfect vegetable side dish A blend of spices enhances the taste, making this dish comforting and delicious. rich and creamy pasta dish Many enjoy it served in a bread bowl or with crusty bread on the side, enhancing its overall appeal.
How can I recreate Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home?
To recreate Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home, start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Add chopped broccoli, carrots, and vegetable broth, cooking until tender. Stir in heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot for a warming meal that resembles the beloved restaurant version.
Is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?
Panera’s original Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not gluten-free because it uses flour as a thickening agent. However, you can make a gluten-free version at home by substituting flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well for a safe dining experience.
Can I freeze Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup! To do this effectively, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove while stirring. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious.
Conclusion for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup :
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a delightful combination of creamy cheese and fresh vegetables that warms both body and soul. By understanding its key ingredients and preparation methods, you can easily recreate this comforting dish at home or modify it for dietary needs like gluten intolerance. Whether enjoyed in a bread bowl or alongside your favorite crusty bread, this soup remains a staple for cozy meals any time of year.
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting warmth of homemade Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This creamy, cheesy delight combines tender broccoli florets with sharp cheddar cheese, creating a bowl of happiness perfect for chilly evenings. Quick to prepare, this soup is not just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with crusty bread for an extra touch of coziness.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables by washing and chopping broccoli, dicing carrots and onion.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in chopped broccoli and carrots; pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 10 minutes until veggies are tender.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream; heat through for another 5 minutes without boiling.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until melted smoothly into the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; serve hot with crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked bacon bits or a splash of hot sauce. Substitute sharp cheddar with your favorite cheese variety for different flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
