Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe

Introduction

Picture this – a warm bowl of creamy and cheesy soup, filled with tender broccoli florets. It’s a comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and satisfying meal. If you’re a fan of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’re in luck! This recipe will show you how to recreate that same delicious taste in the comfort of your own home, and the best part is, it’s super easy to make!

Ingredients

– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

– Start by washing the broccoli florets thoroughly and chopping them into small, bite-sized pieces.
– Finely chop the onion and shred the carrots.
– Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

– In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion, shredded carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent.

Step 3: Add Broth and Broccoli

– Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring it to a boil.
– Once the broth is boiling, add the broccoli florets and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 10 minutes or until the broccoli is tender.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

– While the broccoli is simmering, melt the remaining butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
– Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth. This will create a roux.
– Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
– Continue to cook the sauce until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
– Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

– Once the broccoli is tender, pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the broccoli and broth.
– Stir well to combine, making sure the cheese sauce coats all the vegetables.
– Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Serve the Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese on top, if desired.

Keto and Low Carb Variations

– To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Use a low carb thickener like xanthan gum instead of flour for the cheese sauce. Replace the shredded carrots with additional broccoli or diced celery for fewer carbs.

Tips

– For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Colby Jack, to add a unique flavor to the soup.
– If you prefer a thinner soup, add more chicken broth or heavy cream.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy the delicious taste of Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup right at home! This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a comforting and satisfying bowl of soup in no time.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon garnish if desired.

3. Can I freeze the soup?

While it’s possible to freeze the soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume it fresh for the best taste and texture.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or diced potatoes for added flavor and texture. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.