If you have ever craved that warm, comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup served at Panera, then you are in for a treat with this Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe. It perfectly captures the rich, creamy texture and the bright, savory flavors of fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, all simmered slowly to develop a depth that feels like a big hug on a chilly day. Whether you want a cozy lunch or a hearty dinner, this homemade copycat will quickly become your go-to for satisfying and delicious comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe keeps things straightforward yet flavorful by relying on simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the fresh broccoli provides that vibrant green burst and subtle earthiness, cheddar cheese adds creamy sharpness, and the slow-cooked veggies meld to create a gorgeously rich, velvety soup.
- 2 heads broccoli (florets cut into small pieces): Choose fresh, firm broccoli for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- ½ cup shredded carrots: Offers a natural sweetness and enhances the soup’s texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and brings out all the flavors in the soup.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle spiciness that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 4 cups chicken stock: The liquid foundation that infuses richness and body into the soup.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a luscious base for the roux, supporting the creamy consistency.
- 2 tablespoons flour: Thickens the soup to that perfect, clingy texture you want with every spoonful.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Gives the soup its luxurious, silky mouthfeel.
- 6 oz white cheddar cheese (shredded): The star ingredient that provides tangy, cheesy goodness in every bite.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe
Step 1: Start with the Slow Cooker
Begin by adding the chopped broccoli florets, diced onion, shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder into a 4-quart or larger slow cooker. Pour in the chicken stock to cover the veggies and set the stage for rich flavors to develop as everything simmers low and slow.
Step 2: Cook Until Tender
Set your slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 3 hours, or choose LOW and cook for 6 hours depending on your schedule. The key here is to let the broccoli soften beautifully without falling apart, bringing out that fresh but cooked-down flavor that forms the soup’s heart.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
About 10 minutes before your broccoli is done, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly; this step cooks out any raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir as it thickens into a rich sauce. Lower the heat, then add the shredded white cheddar, stirring until it melts entirely into a creamy, cheesy mixture you can barely wait to dive into.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Once the broccoli and veggies are tender, carefully pour the cheese sauce into the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to fully incorporate the two components into one irresistible soup. Cover and cook on HIGH for another 30 minutes to let the flavors marry and thicken even further. When ready, serve hot and feel free to sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your bowl by garnishing with a bit of freshly chopped chives or green onions for a subtle onion bite and vibrant color contrast. A dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a gentle kick for spice lovers, while a few crispy bacon bits bring smoky crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic parmesan rolls to soak up every last drop of cheesy goodness. A simple mixed greens salad with light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness, making the meal feel complete but never heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, serve this Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe inside hollowed-out mini bread bowls, turning your meal into a fun, edible vessel. Alternatively, drizzle a little herb-infused olive oil across the top or swirl in some sour cream or Greek yogurt for added tang and creaminess. Presentation makes it feel extra special and perfect for guests or cozy nights in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps brilliantly in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Before storing, cool it to room temperature so condensation doesn’t dilute the flavor and texture. When reheated, you might want to add a bit more cream or broth to return it to that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and make sure to label them so you remember this delicious meal tucked away for busy days. Just keep in mind that cheese-based soups sometimes separate a bit when thawed, so stirring well after reheating is key.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and encourage smooth texture. Adding a splash of chicken stock or cream as it warms helps loosen the soup if it’s thickened too much. This way, it tastes freshly made every time you enjoy it again.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken stock for vegetable broth, and you’ll still have a hearty, flavorful Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe that’s perfect for vegetarians.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
White cheddar cheese is recommended for its sharpness and melting quality, but you can experiment with mild or extra sharp varieties based on your taste. Just make sure to shred it yourself for the best melting and texture.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! Using 1-2 cloves of fresh minced garlic adds a brighter, more pungent flavor. Just sauté it with the onions at the start for a smoother integration.
Is it possible to make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
You can definitely make this on the stove by simmering the vegetables in broth until tender, then adding the cheese sauce. Just keep the heat low to avoid curdling the cheese and stirring constantly for that velvety finish.
How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?
For thicker soup, add a bit more flour to the roux or reduce the liquid slightly. For thinner consistency, simply add extra broth or cream when reheating until you reach your desired thickness.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making your own Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe at home. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you get all the delightful flavors of your favorite cafe soup with a homemade touch that warms both heart and kitchen. Give it a whirl—your cozy, comforting masterpiece is waiting in the slow cooker!
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by Panera’s famous recipe. Slow-cooked broccoli and vegetables meld with rich cheddar cheese and a smooth, creamy base, making it perfect for cozy meals. The soup is prepared using a slow cooker for tender vegetables and a stovetop cheese sauce for ultimate richness.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 2 heads broccoli (florets cut into small pieces)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Liquids
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups heavy cream
Dairy and Thickening Agents
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 6 oz white cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare Slow Cooker Base: In a 4 quart or larger slow cooker, add the chopped broccoli florets, diced onion, shredded carrots, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and pour in the chicken stock. This will form the flavorful vegetable broth base for the soup.
- Cook Vegetables Slowly: Cook the mixture on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6 hours, until the broccoli is tender and cooked to your preferred texture. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld deeply and vegetables to soften beautifully.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Approximately 10 minutes before the broccoli finishes cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring and cook until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat to low, add the shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Once the broccoli is cooked, pour the prepared cheese sauce into the slow cooker and stir thoroughly to incorporate. Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 30 minutes to allow the soup to thicken and flavors to marry.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and optionally sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Enjoy this rich, creamy broccoli cheddar soup warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to fully develop and broccoli to soften without constant attention.
- You can substitute white cheddar with yellow cheddar if preferred, but white cheddar is closer to the original Panera flavor.
- To make the soup vegetarian, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.
- For a smoother soup, you can blend part or all of the soup before adding the cheese sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper at the end if needed.
