Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Like Panera Taste
Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting bowl that tastes just like the iconic Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Like Panera Taste, you’ve come to the right place. This broccoli cheddar soup delivers that same velvety flavor in a home‑cooked version.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: extra cheese, chopped chives
Instructions
- Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, then add the milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the broccoli florets, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and fold in the shredded cheeses until melted and smooth, creating a Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Like Panera Taste.
- Serve the hot broccoli cheddar soup and enjoy the comforting flavor.
- Adjust seasoning if needed, then ladle into bowls and garnish with extra cheese and chives.
Pro Tips & Notes
- For an extra depth of flavor, roast the broccoli florets briefly before adding them to the soup.
- Swap half of the milk for heavy cream for an even richer texture.
- Use a blend of cheddar and Gruyère for a more complex cheese profile.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Calcium: 250 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes—use vegetable broth and skip any meat‑based garnish.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months and reheat gently.
- What’s the best cheese substitution? Gruyère, Fontina, or a sharp cheddar blend works beautifully.
Conclusion
Overall, this recipe lets you recreate the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Like Panera Taste in your own kitchen, delivering the same rich, cheesy comfort in every spoonful of broccoli cheddar soup.