Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Panera Bread Copy Cat

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Panera Bread Copy Cat

Fall is the perfect time to indulge in a warm broccoli cheese soup recipe.  This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Panera Bread Copy Catis the ultimate comfort food with a spin on the classic broccoli cheddar soup that calls for heavy cream. Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup is loaded with preservatives- something you won’t have to worry about here. We love it so much that I always make a double batch and freeze in a freezer-safe container for next time.

Loaded with Flavor:

The key to a standout broccoli cheddar soup lies in the combination of ingredients that create a harmonious medley of flavors. The star of the show, broccoli, adds a delightful earthy taste that complements the richness of the cheese. We like to use frozen broccoli florets to cut down on prep time and it seems to cook down easier.   The addition of carrots adds a subtle sweetness, while the potatoes provide a creamy texture and hearty feel. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Creamy and Indulgent:

One of the defining characteristics of a good broccoli cheddar soup is its creamy consistency. Picture each spoonful of soup slowly gliding down your throat, leaving a velvety sensation in its wake. The silky creaminess of this soup is often achieved by using a combination of butter, flour, and milk. It’s your simple roux that is the base of this recipe. The base coats the broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, transforming the humble vegetables into a luxurious treat.  It The hint of thyme gives it the perfect spice, without overdoing it.

Perfect for Fall:

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a crisp fall day. The vibrant green color of the broccoli against the orange hues of the carrots and potatoes is a visual reminder of the changing leaves outside. This soup embodies the essence of autumn, channeling the cozy feeling that accompanies the transition from summer to winter.  The heartiness of the cheese gives you that fulfilling feeling that our bodies crave as we head into winter. The thyme adds a little bit of depth to the creaminess of this cheesy soup.

A versatile dish:

Broccoli cheddar soup stands out not only for its taste but also for its versatility. It can be served as a creamy starter, a main course accompanied by a side of crusty bread, or even as a dip for your favorite snacks. By garnishing it with additional cheese, croutons, or diced bacon, you can add your own personal touch and take the flavor to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a fancy dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is guaranteed to impress.  We love that you can make it ahead and freeze it if you are planning on having a gathering.  By meal prepping this it greatly reduces the stress on the busy day of events.  It is also perfect to make ahead and use on busy weeknights.  To reheat, just thaw in the fridge and pop in a slow cooker.

Ingredients:

3 TBSP. butter

1 large yellow onion

3 large carrots chopped

4 cloves garlic chopped

2 potatoes peeled and cubed

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. thyme

2 TBSP. Einkorn all purpose flour

1 cup whole milk

32 oz. chicken broth or chicken stock

1 package frozen broccoli

8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese shredded

Place a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat on the stove top. Melt butter and add in chopped onion, garlic, carrots and potatoes.  Add in the seasonings (salt and thyme). Add in the flour and stir to coat. Add in the milk until thickened and then add in the chicken broth.  For best results once a low boil begins (not fully boiling) add in the broccoli.  Bring back to a simmer and turn to low. Cover and let simmer about 20-30 minutes until the potatoes, carrots and broccoli are softened.  The cooking time can vary based on your specific stove top. Once done remove from heat and add in the cheddar cheese. If you don’t like large chunks of broccoli you can use an immersion blender to get a more velvety soup. Stir to combine and serve.

You can play around with the flavor a bit by adding in mild cheddar cheese for less of a bite or extra sharp white cheddar if you want a little kick.  You can take it up a notch from here by adding in some red pepper flakes or black pepper. We don’t do this in the original recipe because our kids aren’t huge fans of spice.

I love to toast bread sprinkled with parmesan cheese on the side.  There is something about the combination of the cheeses that adds the perfect balance.

This is the perfect comfort food that your whole family will love. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and a generous amount of cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will warm both your body and soul. Whether you’re indulging in this dish alone or sharing it with loved ones, you’re in for a treat. So, grab a spoon, cozy up, and savor each mouthful of this autumn delight. This is the perfect dinner to also have as lunch the next day for it’s nutritional benefits. We love left over broccoli cheddar soup!

For more amazing soup recipes try these:

Gluten Free Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Creamy Cheddar and Chive Potato Soup