Broccoli Cheese Soup
Craving Panera? Make Their Famous Broccoli Cheddar Soup at Home!
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of creamy, cheesy soup on a chilly day? If you’re a fan of Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’re in for a treat! This copycat recipe brings all the cozy flavors right to your kitchen, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Forget the lines and enjoy a bowl of this deliciousness whenever the craving hits!
This recipe isn’t just about replicating the taste; it’s about creating a comforting experience. The combination of tender broccoli, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of onion creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack.
What makes this recipe special?
- Authentic Flavor: We’ve carefully crafted this recipe to mimic the iconic Panera taste.
- Easy to Follow: Simple instructions make this soup accessible to cooks of all levels.
- Customizable: Adjust the amount of cheese or broccoli to suit your preferences.
- Budget-Friendly: Making it at home saves you money compared to buying it at a restaurant.
Tips for the Best Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
- Grate your own cheddar: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will give you the creamiest results.
- Don’t skip the simmering: Allowing the soup to simmer for the recommended time allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken.
- Adjust the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes.
- Serve with your favorite toppings: A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a side of crusty bread are all delicious additions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain off any excess water before adding it to the soup.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Velveeta and cheddar are key to the authentic Panera flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a different twist.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
Q: What’s the best way to serve this soup?
A: Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch.
Get ready to enjoy a bowl of comfort with this incredible Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup! It’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold day and satisfy your cravings.
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 8 ounces Velveeta cubed
- 1 cup cheddar cheese grated, plus more for topping
- 3 cups water
- 6 cups broccoli chopped
- 3/4 cup onion chopped
Instructions
- In a medium pot make a white sauce melting ½ cup butter over medium-high heat. Once flour is melted stir in flour until combined, stir in milk. Continuously stir until there are no visible chunks. Let it simmer over heat until it starts to boil, once it is boiling add in cream cheese and Velveeta. Stir until creamy and smooth and no visible chunks. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large pot bring 3 cups of water and bouillon cubes to a boil. Once the water is boiling add in chopped broccoli and onion. Boil for 10-12 minutes, until 2/3 of the water has evaporated and the broccoli is tender, just eyeball it.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the sauce you made above to the broccoli & water pot, stir until combined. At this point it will look very watery, don’t freak out. It will be okay! Bring to a slow boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- In addition, if you like it extra cheesy, stir in a cup of sharp cheddar cheese, grated. Once it has simmered for about 20 minutes, remove from heat, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, it will thicken up at this point. Serve with rolls or in a bread bowl.
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