Ultimate Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe to Savor

It’s a gray, chilly day, and you’re wrapped up in your favorite blanket, contemplating life choices while staring at the fridge. Suddenly, a thought pops into your head: Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. The creamy goodness with its velvety texture and rich cheese flavor is calling your name. You can almost smell the garlic wafting through the air. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, and it’s about to become your new favorite comfort food. For more inspiration, check out this creamy scalloped potatoes recipe.

Remember that time you ordered it and felt like royalty? Well, today you’ll be the chef of this culinary castle! Picture yourself serving up steaming bowls of this deliciousness to family or friends (or just to yourself—no judgment here). Perfect for cold nights or cozy lunches, this soup guarantees to warm you from the inside out while making your taste buds do a happy dance.

Ingredients for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose vibrant green florets for the best flavor and nutrition; they should feel firm to the touch.
• Carrots: Use fresh carrots for sweetness; they add color and crunch to this creamy soup.
• Onion: A medium onion will provide depth of flavor; yellow onions work wonderfully here.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; minced garlic releases its oils beautifully when cooked.
• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the seasoning in your soup better.
• Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess; don’t skimp on the good stuff!
• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for intense flavor; shredding it yourself yields better meltability.
• Salt & Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance all flavors—season to taste!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Veggies

Start by washing your broccoli thoroughly. Chop it into bite-sized florets. Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds so they cook evenly. Dice the onion and mince the garlic because we want those flavors dancing together.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, melt some butter (or use olive oil if you’re feeling fancy). Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about five minutes. Toss in minced garlic next—your kitchen should start smelling like heaven!

Step 3: Cook The Veggies

Add chopped broccoli and sliced carrots to the pot. Pour in your vegetable broth until everything is submerged; bring it all to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about ten minutes until veggies are tender but not mushy.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once your veggies are cooked through, use an immersion blender to puree them right in the pot until smooth—if you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches into a traditional blender. Remember, hot soup + blender = potential explosion! Proceed with caution and blend away.

Step 5: Cream It Up

Stir in heavy cream gradually while keeping the heat low (we’re not trying to scald ourselves here). Let it simmer on low for another five minutes—this allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Add The Cheese

Finally, turn off the heat, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted completely. Season with salt and pepper according to taste. You want every spoonful bursting with cheesy goodness!

Transfer to bowls, garnish with additional cheddar or even some croutons if you’re feeling extra gourmet! A sprinkle of fresh parsley wouldn’t hurt either—because we eat with our eyes first! Enjoy your homemade Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup as it warms both body and soul on those chilly days ahead!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add your broccoli and carrots. Pour in the broth and let it simmer. Once the veggies are tender, stir in the cheese and cream for that dreamy finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cheddar for a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Add some crushed red pepper for a kick or toss in cooked chicken for extra protein. The possibilities are endless.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep that creamy texture intact.

Sometimes I whip up this soup on chilly evenings, and my friends rave about it. It’s become my unofficial comfort food ambassador; everyone leaves with warm hearts and full bellies!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you’ll need fresh broccoli florets, shredded carrots, diced onions, and a rich blend of sharp cheddar cheese. Additionally, you’ll require vegetable broth, heavy cream, and spices like salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. creamy cheesy root vegetable gratin You can also add a bit of garlic and flour to thicken the soup. This combination creates a creamy texture with a delightful taste that closely resembles the popular restaurant version.

How can I make my Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

To create a healthier version of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, consider using low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also incorporate more vegetables, such as spinach or kale, to boost nutritional content. Reducing the amount of cheese will lower the calorie count while still maintaining flavor. delicious creamed corn side dish For added protein, you may include cooked chicken or beans. This way, you enjoy a delicious soup without compromising your health goals.

Can I freeze Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup! However, it’s best to do so before adding cheese if possible. Cheese may change in texture when frozen and reheated. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

How long does Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup last in the fridge?

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. To ensure freshness, be sure to cool the soup down before refrigerating it. If you notice any changes in color or smell after this period, it’s best to discard it. Reheating leftovers should be done gently on the stove for optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion for Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

In summary, making your own version of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is not only easy but also allows for customization based on your preferences and dietary needs. You can adjust ingredients for health benefits or enhance flavors with additional spices. pair with hearty shepherd’s pie This creamy soup is perfect for chilly days or as a comforting meal option any time of year. tasty scalloped corn for dinner Enjoy this rich and flavorful dish knowing you have crafted it with care!