Quick Panera Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe Anyone Can Make
Introduction
Why This Recipe Works
Ingredients for Recipe
1 small onion, finely chopped – adds flavor depth
2 garlic cloves, minced – enhances aroma
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped – star ingredient
1 cup shredded carrots – for color and sweetness
3 tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens the soup
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth – flavorful base
2 cups milk (whole or 2%) – for creaminess
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – rich, cheesy flavor
Salt & black pepper – to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional) – adds warmth
Extra cheese or croutons – for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics:
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. - Add veggies & flour:
Stir in broccoli and carrots. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste. - Add liquid:
Gradually pour in broth and milk while stirring. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the soup thickens. - Add cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. - Serve:
Ladle into bowls, top with extra cheese or croutons, and serve hot with bread or a side salad.
Chef’s Insight:The secret to a perfect broccoli cheese soup is patience and low heat—never rush melting the cheese or it can curdle. Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor and always stir continuously while adding the milk and cheese for a silky finish. For an extra touch, blend half the soup for a creamy-meets-chunky texture that mirrors the Panera classic.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcook the broccoli – it should be tender but still green and fresh.
Use freshly grated cheese – pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Avoid high heat – it can cause the milk to separate.
Add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard – enhances the cheese flavor beautifully.
Serving, Nutrition, Storage, Reheating & Freezing
Serving: Serve in a bread bowl or with a slice of sourdough for the full Panera experience.
Nutrition (per bowl ~350 ml): ~330 calories | 14 g protein | 22 g carbs | 20 g fat
Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove; add a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Not recommended (dairy may separate), but can be refrigerated for short-term meal prep.
Quick Panera Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe Anyone Can Make
Course: Healthy Soups4
servings10
minutes20
minutes330
kcalThis Quick Panera Broccoli and Cheese Soup brings restaurant-quality comfort straight to your kitchen in under 30 minutes. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli and carrots, it’s the ultimate cozy meal for any day.
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter – for sautéing
1 small onion, finely chopped – adds flavor depth
2 garlic cloves, minced – enhances aroma
2 cups broccoli florets, chopped – star ingredient
1 cup shredded carrots – for color and sweetness
3 tbsp all-purpose flour – thickens the soup
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth – flavorful base
2 cups milk (whole or 2%) – for creaminess
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – rich, cheesy flavor
Salt & black pepper – to taste
A pinch of nutmeg (optional) – adds warmth
Extra cheese or croutons – for garnish
Directions
- Sauté the aromatics:Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add veggies & flour:Stir in broccoli and carrots. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
- Add liquid:Gradually pour in broth and milk while stirring. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the soup thickens.
- Add cheese:Lower the heat and stir in cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Serve:Ladle into bowls, top with extra cheese or croutons, and serve hot with bread or a side salad.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, blend half the soup and mix it back in before serving.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for the best melt and flavor—avoid pre-shredded cheese.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth that enhances the cheesy base.
- Serve in a bread bowl or with crusty garlic bread for the true Panera-style experience.
FAQs
This Quick Panera Broccoli and Cheese Soup Recipe brings creamy comfort straight to your kitchen. With its velvety texture, rich cheddar flavor, and wholesome ingredients, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Simple, satisfying, and ready in just 30 minutes—this is comfort food done right, chef-style.
