Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Enjoy the creamy comfort and rich flavor of this homemade version of the beloved Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen, thawed and drained if frozen
- 1 cup shredded carrots Freshly shredded for best flavor
- 1 small onion, chopped Yellow or white onion works well
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for optimal flavor
Liquids
- 4 tablespoons butter Unsalted butter is preferable
- 4 cups vegetable broth Use low-sodium broth for less salt
- 2 cups milk Whole milk is suggested for creaminess
Cheese and Thickener
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to mix with other cheeses if desired
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For thickening the soup
Seasoning
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Cooking
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the broccoli, carrots, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and heat through.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
Notes
Serve hot in bowls. Add fresh bread or croutons on the side for a complete meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on cold days. For a smoother soup, blend with an immersion blender after cooking. Adjust thickness by adding more or less broth or flour based on preference. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.