Panera Four Cheese Souffle Recipe: A Delicious, Cheesy Masterpiece

The Panera Four Cheese Souffle: A Comforting Classic

Panera Bread’s Four Cheese Souffle is a beloved menu staple known for its creamy, cheesy goodness and airy texture. It’s a symphony of four distinct cheeses, each contributing its unique flavor profile to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.

What sets this souffle apart? It’s the perfect balance of richness and lightness. The souffle itself is incredibly airy, practically melting in your mouth, while the cheesy filling is intensely flavorful and satisfying. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, offering a comforting and indulgent treat.

Ready to recreate this Panera favorite in your own kitchen? This recipe will guide you through the process, step by step, so you can enjoy the same deliciousness at home.

Panera Four Cheese Soufflé Recipe Card

A rich and creamy soufflé filled with a blend of four artisanal cheeses.

Recipe Details

Cook Time: 35-40 minutes | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

• 240 g / 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated Fontina cheese
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 60 g / 1/4 cup grated Cheddar cheese
• 120 ml / 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp (5 ml) paprika
• 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) salt
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) black pepper

Cooking Instructions

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare the soufflé according to the recipe and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Ingredients for Panera Four Cheese Souffle

To make a delicious Panera Four Cheese Souffle, it’s essential to have the right ingredients. This recipe features a blend of four types of cheese, fresh herbs, and other key components.

The following ingredients are necessary for this recipe:

• 240 g / 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 120 g / 1/2 cup grated Gouda cheese
• 60 g / 1/4 cup grated White Cheddar cheese
• 20 g / 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 480 ml / 2 cups whole milk
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 large egg whites (at room temperature)
• Optional ingredients:
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe for the best results.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Panera Four Cheese Souffle

This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious, bubbly Panera-style Four Cheese Souffle. Follow the instructions carefully for best results.

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 1.5-liter (6-cup) souffle dish with butter.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 60g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter over medium heat.
3. Whisk in 60g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in 500ml (2 cups) milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Remove from heat and stir in 150g (1 cup) shredded Gruyere cheese, 100g (1/2 cup) shredded Fontina cheese, 100g (1/2 cup) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and 50g (1/4 cup) shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of water until light and frothy.
9. Gently fold the egg mixture into the cheese sauce until just combined.
10. Pour the mixture into the prepared souffle dish.
11. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the souffle is puffed and golden brown.
12. Let the souffle rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Panera Four Cheese Soufflé

A light, airy, and delicious soufflé is within reach with these expert tips.

1. Temperature Control is Key

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This is crucial for even mixing and a smooth soufflé texture.

• Take the eggs out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before starting.
• Leave the cheese at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix the ingredients just until they’re combined. Overmixing can deflate the soufflé and lead to a dense texture.

1. Mix the egg whites and egg yolks separately.
2. Add the dry ingredients to the egg yolks and mix until just combined.
3. Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture.

3. Use the Right Cheese Blend

A combination of cheddar, Parmesan, Gruyère, and mozzarella provides the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, as it can be too dry and affect the soufflé’s texture.

Use a high-quality cheese blend for the best results.

4. Avoid Overbaking

Bake the soufflé until it’s just set and still slightly jiggly in the center.

Overbaking can cause the soufflé to collapse and lose its light texture.

Substitutions and Alternatives for Panera Four Cheese Souffle

To adapt the Panera Four Cheese Souffle recipe to various dietary needs and preferences, consider the following substitutions:

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken broth with a vegetable broth (480 ml / 2 cups) to maintain moisture without altering the flavor profile.
• To reduce saturated fat, substitute 120 g / 1/2 cup of the grated cheddar cheese with a low-fat alternative, such as part-skim mozzarella (120 g / 1/2 cup).
• For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour (30 g / 1/4 cup) with a gluten-free flour blend (30 g / 1/4 cup) and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Those preferring a stronger cheese flavor can add 60 g / 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese to the mixture, while others may opt for a milder taste by using 60 g / 1/4 cup of Monterey Jack cheese instead.

When making substitutions, keep in mind that the souffle’s texture and flavor may vary. Bake the souffle in a preheated oven at 190°C / 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s puffed and golden brown.

Level Up Your Panera Four Cheese Souffle: Creative Variations

Love the classic Panera Four Cheese Souffle but craving something new? Here are a few ideas to switch things up and make this comforting dish your own.

1. Spicy Southwest Souffle

   Add a kick with diced jalapeños (about 1/4 cup) and a sprinkle of smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon) to the cheese mixture. Top with diced roasted red peppers and crumbled chorizo for an extra layer of flavor. Cooking time may increase by 5-10 minutes.

2. Mediterranean Delight Souffle

   Swap out some of the cheddar for crumbled feta cheese (about 60g / 1/2 cup). Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes (about 1/4 cup) and fresh oregano (1 tablespoon). A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of pine nuts after baking complete the Mediterranean vibe.

3. Mushroom & Thyme Souffle

   Sauté sliced mushrooms (about 240g / 1 cup) with garlic and thyme (1 tablespoon) until softened. Add this mixture to the cheese blend for an earthy, savory twist.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients to create your own unique Panera Four Cheese Souffle variations!

Storing and Reheating Your Panera Four Cheese Soufflé

To keep your soufflé fresh for as long as possible, it’s essential to store it properly.

• Allow the soufflé to cool completely on a wire rack.
• Transfer it to an airtight container, making sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent air from entering.
• Store it in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 2 days.

When you’re ready to reheat your soufflé, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the soufflé from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Place the soufflé in a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the soufflé is heated through and the top is golden brown.

Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave. Simply wrap each serving in a damp paper towel and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warmed through.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Panera Four Cheese Souffle

Even with careful preparation, issues can arise when making a Panera Four Cheese Souffle. To help resolve these problems, we’ve compiled a list of common issues and their solutions.

Common Problems and Fixes

• Fallen Souffle: This can occur when the souffle is removed from the oven too soon or when it’s not baked at the correct temperature (190°C / 375°F). To fix, ensure the souffle is baked for the full recommended time and check the temperature regularly.
• Uneven Cooking: If the souffle is not cooked evenly, it may be due to inadequate rotation in the oven. To resolve, rotate the souffle every 10-12 minutes to ensure even cooking.
• Overcooked Edges: Overcooking can cause the edges to become too brown or crispy. To prevent, cover the edges with foil if they start to brown too quickly, and reduce the oven temperature to 180°C / 350°F if necessary.
• Insufficient Rising: If the souffle doesn’t rise as expected, it may be due to old or low-quality baking powder. Check the expiration date and try replacing it with a fresh batch.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you can overcome common issues and achieve a perfectly cooked Panera Four Cheese Souffle, with a light and airy texture, and a delicious blend of four cheeses (240 g / 1 cup grated cheese).

Nutrition Information for Panera Four Cheese Souffle

This Panera Four Cheese Souffle is a decadent treat, but it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content.

Serving Size: 1 serving

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 28g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 15g

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.

Diet Tags: Not Gluten-Free, Not Dairy-Free

Key Takeaways for Making the Perfect Panera Four Cheese Souffle

To achieve success with the Panera Four Cheese Souffle recipe, several essential tips must be considered. The foundation of a perfect souffle lies in the quality and variety of cheeses used, including a blend of 120 g / 4.3 oz gruyère, 120 g / 4.3 oz parmesan, 60 g / 2.1 oz cheddar, and 60 g / 2.1 oz mozzarella.

• Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F to ensure a stable temperature for even cooking.
• Butter the souffle dish thoroughly to prevent the souffle from sticking and to promote a smooth rise.
• Gentle folding of the egg whites into the cheese mixture is crucial to maintain the airy texture of the souffle.
• Avoid opening the oven door during the cooking process, as this can cause the souffle to collapse. Instead, rely on the recommended cooking time of 35-40 minutes.

By following these key takeaways and maintaining a consistent oven temperature, a perfectly risen and deliciously cheesy Panera Four Cheese Souffle can be achieved.

A Souffle Worth the Effort

This Panera Four Cheese Souffle recipe has been a labor of love. I’ve always been a sucker for a good souffle—that light, airy texture, the cheesy richness, the way it practically melts in your mouth. When I first tasted Panera’s version, I knew I had to recreate it at home.

Let’s be honest, souffles can be intimidating. The delicate nature of the batter, the precise timing, the fear of a collapse—it’s enough to make anyone hesitate. But trust me, the reward is absolutely worth the effort. The first time I successfully puffed up this souffle, I felt a surge of pure joy. The kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of melted cheese, and the golden-brown crust was a sight to behold.

This recipe is a faithful adaptation of Panera’s, with a few tweaks I’ve made over time to ensure consistent success. It’s become a staple in my repertoire, perfect for special occasions or just a comforting weeknight dinner.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Panera Four Cheese Souffle

With this authentic Panera Four Cheese Souffle recipe, you’re just a few steps away from indulging in a rich, creamy, and utterly delightful dish. We hope you’ve enjoyed the process of bringing this recipe to life as much as we have.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this souffle recipe and make it your own. Try pairing it with a fresh green salad or a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe! Share your photos and feedback in the comments below, and be sure to explore our other delicious souffle recipes for more culinary inspiration.