Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is a creamy and comforting dish that brings the delicious flavors of Panera’s famous soup right to your home kitchen. Made with simple ingredients and easy techniques, this soup is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or chilly days when you crave a warm and satisfying meal. Loaded with tender broccoli, shredded carrots, and melted cheddar cheese, each spoonful of this soup is a taste of pure comfort.

Ingredients:

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the soup base.
• Onions, Carrots, and Broccoli: Provide texture, sweetness, and hearty vegetables to the soup.
• Chicken Broth: Infuses the soup with savory depth of flavor.
• Milk and Heavy Whipping Cream: Create a creamy and luscious base for the soup.
• All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the soup and helps to create a smooth consistency.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the taste of the soup.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Add a subtle kick of heat to balance the richness of the soup.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the soup to create a velvety cheese sauce.

How To Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, then add diced onions, shredded carrots, and chopped broccoli. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Slowly pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy whipping cream. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, then add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously and heat over medium heat until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once the soup has thickened, add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade broccoli cheese soup.

Tips and Variations:

• For added flavor, sauté the onions, carrots, and broccoli in the melted butter until they are slightly caramelized before adding the liquids.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup before adding the cheese.
• Customize the soup by adding cooked diced chicken or crispy bacon for extra protein and flavor.
• Garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of crispy crumbled bacon, or chopped fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.