Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creamy, cheesy, and filled with tender broccoli and carrots, this easy homemade broccoli cheddar soup brings your favorite café-style comfort food right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the broth, followed by the half-and-half and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce the heat and gently simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender and the soup thickens.
- For a smoother consistency, blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Remove from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar one handful at a time until completely melted.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm with crusty bread or in sourdough bread bowls.
Notes
Recipe Notes
-
Shred cheddar from a block for the smoothest melting.
-
Avoid boiling the soup once the cheese has been added.
-
Add warm milk or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
-
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 to 4 days.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and vegetarian-friendly cheese.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Per serving, based on 6 servings without bread, toppings, or optional additions. Approximate values calculated from standard ingredient data, not laboratory-tested.| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 440 kcal |
| Protein | 19 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Total Fat | 33 g |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg |