Creamy, comforting Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe
A Taste of Home: Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup on a chilly day. This creamy, cheesy delight is packed with tender broccoli florets and a rich, savory broth that’s both comforting and satisfying. Now, you can recreate this classic at home with this easy-to-follow recipe.
We’ve meticulously crafted this recipe to mirror the flavors you know and love from Panera, using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 240 g / 1 cup peeled and diced potatoes
- 240 g / 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 600 ml / 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 240 ml / 1 cup milk
- 120 g / 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
A creamy, comforting soup that’s reminiscent of Panera Bread’s popular menu item, now in the comfort of your own kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 240 g / 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced (240 g / 2 cups)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6 g / 2 teaspoons)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (475 ml / 2 cups)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml / 1 cup)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Temperature:
Preheat to 180°C / 350°F.
Ingredients for Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
To make a delicious and authentic Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the following ingredients are necessary:
- 450 g / 2 cups broccoli florets
- 60 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 240 g / 1 cup chopped onion
- 300 g / 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.2 L / 5 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed to 82°C / 180°F
- 240 g / 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- 225 g / 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Nutmeg, to taste
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Optional ingredients:
- 120 g / 1/2 cup diced carrots for added sweetness and texture
- 60 g / 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced, for extra depth of flavor
These ingredients will help to create a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying broccoli cheddar soup that is reminiscent of the popular Panera Bread version.
Instructions for Making Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This recipe will guide you through creating a creamy, cheesy broccoli soup that rivals the famous Panera version.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Bloom the Spices: Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrance.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of chopped broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend for Smoothness: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of milk. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or croutons, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Take your broccoli cheddar soup to the next level with these expert tips.
- Roast your broccoli**: Before pureeing, roast broccoli florets in the oven (200°C / 400°F) for 15-20 minutes to deepen its natural sweetness and enhance its flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses**: Combine grated cheddar, Parmesan, and a hint of Gruyère for a rich, creamy, and complex flavor profile.
- Don’t over-puree**: Leave some texture from the broccoli and onions to maintain the soup’s hearty, comforting feel.
- Acidity balances flavor**: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of white wine to balance the richness and enhance the overall taste.
- Whisk constantly**: When adding heavy cream or milk, whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Avoid common pitfalls by not overcooking the broccoli, which can lead to a bitter taste. Also, be cautious not to add too much cream, as it can overpower the other flavors.
With these expert tips, you’ll be on your way to crafting a Panera Bread-inspired broccoli cheddar soup that’s both creamy and full of flavor.
Substitutions and Alternatives
To make the Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe more inclusive, consider the following substitutions and alternatives:
- Replace 240 g / 1 cup of cheddar cheese with 240 g / 1 cup of vegan cheddar shreds for a dairy-free option, adjusting the amount to taste as vegan cheese can be sharper.
- Swap 30 g / 2 tablespoons of butter with 30 g / 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a lower-saturated fat content, noting the slightly different flavor profile.
- Use 120 g / 1/2 cup of gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for traditional flour to accommodate gluten intolerance, ensuring the soup’s thickness remains consistent.
- For a lighter version, reduce the amount of 240 g / 1 cup of cheddar cheese by half, adding 120 g / 1/2 cup of low-fat cream cheese to maintain creaminess.
When making these substitutions, keep in mind the temperature for heating the soup remains the same, at 82°C / 180°F, to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the soup is heated through.
Variations on Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Love this classic soup but want to make it your own? Here are a few ideas to customize your Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
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Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the soup while simmering for a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level. This variation takes about 5 minutes longer to cook.
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Creamy Dream
For an extra rich and creamy texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking. You can also use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk.
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Hearty & Cheesy
Add cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled bacon to the soup for a more substantial meal. Increase the cheddar cheese to about 180g/1 1/2 cups for extra cheesiness.
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Lemon Zest
Brighten the flavors with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end of cooking. This variation adds a refreshing touch.
Storing and Reheating Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Proper storage and reheating are crucial to maintaining the quality and flavor of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Follow these guidelines to enjoy your soup for a longer period.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Cool the soup to room temperature, then refrigerate it at 5°C (40°F) or below within two hours. The soup will keep for up to three to five days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: Pour the cooled soup into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Label and date the container, then store it in the freezer at -18°C (0°F) or below. Frozen soup will keep for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
- Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it straight from the freezer in a saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally.
- Refrigerated soup can be reheated in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, whisking every 30 seconds until hot and steaming.
- Warm the soup to 75°C (165°F) or above to ensure food safety.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Even with a reliable recipe, issues can arise when making Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Texture and flavor problems are common, but easily resolved with a few adjustments.
Some common issues and their fixes include:
- Too thick: add a little more chicken or vegetable broth (about 60 ml / 1/4 cup) and heat, stirring constantly, until the desired consistency is reached.
- Too thin: simmer the soup over low heat (around 150°C / 300°F) for 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid and thicken the soup.
- Lacking flavor: add more shredded cheddar cheese (about 55 g / 1/2 cup) or a pinch of salt to taste, and consider adding some diced onions or garlic for added depth of flavor.
- Overcooked broccoli: blanch the broccoli in boiling water (around 100°C / 212°F) for 1-2 minutes before adding it to the soup, or add it towards the end of the cooking time to preserve its texture and color.
By identifying and addressing these common issues, a delicious and satisfying Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be achieved.
Nutrition Information for Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
This creamy and comforting soup packs a punch of flavor without being overly heavy. But how does it stack up nutritionally? Here’s a closer look at the facts per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 8g
While this soup is a delicious treat, it’s important to note the moderate sodium content.
- Can I use frozen broccoli in the Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe? Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but thaw and squeeze out excess water before using for the best flavor and texture.
- How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick? To prevent the soup from becoming too thick, you can add a little more chicken or vegetable broth, or even some water, and then reheat it gently.
- Can I make the Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Reheat it gently over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.
- What type of cheese is best to use for an authentic Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup flavor? For an authentic flavor, use a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese, as it provides a richer and more pronounced flavor profile compared to mild cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions about Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Here are some answers to common questions about our Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the cheddar cheese. For a vegan version, substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Simply thaw it first and pat dry with paper towels before adding to the soup.
Q: How can I make this soup thicker?
A: You can add a roux (1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon flour) to thicken the soup. Alternatively, use less broth or add some heavy cream.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply brown the onions and garlic, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.
Key Takeaways from the Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This recipe summary highlights the essential tips and techniques for making a delicious and creamy Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup. To start, it’s crucial to steam the broccoli until tender, which helps preserve its nutrients and flavor. Then, blend the mixture until smooth to achieve the signature creamy texture.
- Use a combination of 240 g / 1 cup grated cheddar cheese and 120 g / 1/2 cup all-purpose flour to create a rich and velvety soup base.
- Cook the soup over medium heat, around 180°C / 350°F, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 85°C / 185°F, ensuring the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened.
By following these key takeaways, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering and authentic Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup
With this Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, you can now enjoy the comforting taste of your favorite restaurant classic in the comfort of your own home. This easy-to-make soup is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli. We hope you’ve enjoyed recreating this beloved soup and that it brings you and your loved ones warmth and satisfaction. Don’t stop here – explore our collection of soup recipes for more delicious and healthy options to try.
