Easy Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Name: Easy Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your day with this comforting and creamy Easy Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Packed with fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and an irresistible blend of seasonings, this soup is a simple, wholesome dish that brings a taste of your favorite café right to your kitchen. Perfectly paired with a crusty bread or enjoyed on its own, it's a delicious option for lunch or dinner that everyone will love.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-09T16:12:44.611Z

This soup is a wonderful pastime, evoking memories of cozy afternoons at your favorite café. With its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s a dish you’ll want to make time and again.

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it's homemade. This Easy Panera Copycat Broccoli Cheddar Soup captures that essence perfectly. Made with fresh ingredients and simple techniques, it turns ordinary components into an extraordinary dish. Each spoonful offers not just warmth but also a satisfying texture and rich flavor that can elevate any meal.

Cooking at home allows you to customize flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer a sharper cheese flavor or a bit of spice, this recipe is easily adjustable. So get into the kitchen, embrace the aromas, and take your time – the magic of homemade soup is in the details and the love you put into it.

Pairing Suggestions

While this Broccoli Cheddar Soup is delightful on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. A crusty artisan bread or a soft baguette makes for the perfect partner. The bread can be used to dip into the creamy soup, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the dish.

For a more filling meal, consider serving the soup alongside a light salad. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cheddar and cream, creating a well-rounded dining option. Plus, the vibrant colors will add visual appeal to your plate, making it even more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your soup:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Make sure to chop the broccoli into small pieces for even cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Add Broccoli and Broth

Add the chopped broccoli and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.

Add Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat the soup until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.

Serve hot, with extra cheese on top if desired.

Ingredient Spotlight: Broccoli

Broccoli is often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Including broccoli in your diet can support your immune system, promote heart health, and aid in digestion. When used in this Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it not only adds flavor but also brings vibrant color and a wealth of nutrients to the dish.

Choosing fresh broccoli is essential for this recipe. Look for firm, deep green florets and avoid any that have started to yellow. This will ensure your soup has that fresh, garden-fresh taste that makes the dish so enjoyable. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even mix in other vegetables like cauliflower or spinach for an added nutritional boost.

Cheddar Cheese: The Star of the Show

Sharp cheddar cheese is the star ingredient in this soup, providing a rich, creamy texture and a robust flavor. When selecting cheddar, look for blocks rather than pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheddar melts more smoothly, ensuring that it blends well with the soup. You can experiment with the type of cheddar as well; a sharp aged cheddar will add a more profound richness compared to a milder variety.

Cheddar is not just tasty; it also contains protein and calcium. By using high-quality cheese, you enhance the overall flavor and nutritional value of your soup. So don’t skimp on this ingredient; indulge in the full-bodied flavor of cheddar for a truly delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.