Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup is a beloved classic, known for its creamy texture and rich, cheesy flavor with tender broccoli and carrots. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a hearty, indulgent meal. This recipe captures all the deliciousness of the original and can be made easily at home in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half (or whole milk for a lighter version)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large carrot, julienned or grated
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
Instructions:
- Sauté the onion and garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Make the roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. This helps thicken the soup and gives it a creamy base.
- Add the liquids:
- Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and broth, stirring to prevent lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture starts to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cook the vegetables:
- Add the broccoli florets and carrots to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but not mushy.
- Blend (optional):
- If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some chunks of broccoli for texture. This step is optional depending on how creamy you like your soup.
- Add the cheese:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a little at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding more. Add the Dijon mustard (if using) and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
- Adjust consistency:
- If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with a little more broth or half-and-half until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the Broccoli Cheese Soup hot with a side of crusty bread or in a bread bowl for the full Panera experience.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Broccoli Cheese Soup that’s perfect for any cozy meal!
