This rich and velvety Broccoli Cheese Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Loaded with tender broccoli, savory cheese, and a perfect balance of seasonings, it’s ideal for a chilly day or any time you crave a hearty meal.
This soup is not just tasty; it’s versatile too! You can adjust the cheese for a sharper or milder flavor, or even throw in a dash of hot sauce for a kick. The creamy texture paired with the freshness of broccoli makes it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and casual get-togethers. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
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2 tablespoons butter
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1/2 cup onion, diced
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1/4 cup carrots, diced
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1/4 cup celery, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups chicken broth
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4 cups broccoli florets
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1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon pepper
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1/4 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Directions:
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In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
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Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Add the broccoli florets to the pot and continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.
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In a small bowl, mix the half-and-half with cornstarch (if using) and slowly add it to the soup. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the soup begins to thicken.
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Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
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Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup: A Comforting Delight for Every Season
Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheese Soup has become a fan favorite, known for its rich and creamy texture, paired with the heartiness of broccoli and the sharpness of cheddar. This soup brings together all the warmth and comfort one can expect from a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter evening or serving it as part of a casual lunch, Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup has earned its spot as a beloved classic in many households. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—fewer ingredients, yet a flavor-packed experience that leaves you wanting more.
The Origins of Broccoli Cheese Soup
While the specific origin of broccoli cheese soup may not be clear, creamy soups featuring broccoli and cheese have been popular for decades. The pairing of broccoli and cheese has been a staple of many cuisines, particularly in Western dishes. The concept of blending vegetables like broccoli with creamy cheeses dates back to when cream-based soups first became popular in American kitchens. Broccoli, with its mild taste and hearty texture, pairs beautifully with the rich and bold flavor of cheddar cheese, creating a dish that offers both comfort and nourishment.
Panera Bread, a bakery-café chain known for its delicious soups, took this combination to new heights with their signature version. Their Broccoli Cheese Soup became famous for its smooth texture, the balance of vegetables and cheese, and its perfectly seasoned broth. Over time, this soup has become a go-to comfort food for many, often served in a bread bowl for a fun and unique presentation.
Why Is This Soup So Popular?
There’s something magical about a warm, creamy soup that comforts you from the inside out. Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, in particular, is a perfect balance of flavors. The cheddar cheese provides a rich and velvety taste, while the broccoli offers a slight crunch and earthiness. The creamy base, which is a combination of butter, cream, and chicken broth, creates the smooth consistency that makes every spoonful so enjoyable.
The soup is not just about its taste; it’s also about its versatility. It can be served in a variety of ways—whether in a bread bowl, alongside a fresh salad, or even with a side of crispy bacon for added flavor. The soup is a great option for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or even as an appetizer at a dinner party. It’s one of those dishes that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Health Benefits of Broccoli Cheese Soup
While this soup is undoubtedly a rich indulgence, it also packs in some health benefits, thanks to the inclusion of broccoli. Broccoli is a powerhouse vegetable, full of vitamins and nutrients. It’s an excellent source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and various antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress. The addition of cheese adds calcium and protein to the dish, which can contribute to a healthy, balanced diet in moderation.
That being said, the creamy base does mean the soup is relatively high in calories, especially if it’s made with full-fat cream and cheese. However, this can be easily adjusted for those looking for a lighter version by opting for lower-fat or plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or cashew cream. Additionally, if you’re looking to add even more nutrition, consider adding extra vegetables like spinach, carrots, or cauliflower to boost the dish’s fiber and vitamin content.
How to Make Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup at Home
Making Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup at home is easier than it might seem. While it’s tempting to grab a bowl from your nearest Panera Bread café, recreating this soup in your kitchen is not only a rewarding experience but also a great way to customize it to your personal taste. You can control the ingredients, experiment with different types of cheese, and adjust the thickness to your liking.
The basic steps involve cooking the vegetables—like onions, carrots, celery, and garlic—until soft, then adding chicken broth to build a flavorful base. The star of the dish, broccoli, is added next, simmering until tender. To achieve the creamy consistency, half-and-half or heavy cream is mixed in, followed by the addition of shredded cheddar cheese. The result is a smooth, velvety soup with chunks of broccoli throughout.
For an extra touch, you can serve the soup in a bread bowl. The combination of the creamy soup with the soft, slightly crispy bread is the perfect way to elevate this simple dish into something special. The bread bowl also absorbs the soup, giving you an extra treat at the end.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup is a dish that pairs wonderfully with other comfort foods. One of the most popular ways to serve it is in a bread bowl, a signature offering from Panera Bread that adds a rustic flair to the soup. A side of fresh, crusty bread or a warm baguette works well too, allowing you to scoop up every last drop of the creamy soup.
For those looking to make the meal more substantial, adding a side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the rich soup. A side of roasted potatoes or even a grilled cheese sandwich could complement the meal, offering a combination of textures and flavors that will leave you fully satisfied.
As for variations, there are countless ways to tweak the basic recipe. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. You can also switch up the cheese, using sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor or opting for a milder cheese like mozzarella. For a vegetarian version, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can even make this soup vegan by replacing the cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Conclusion: Why Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Continues to Win Hearts
In the world of comfort food, few dishes stand the test of time like Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup. This rich, creamy, and cheesy soup has become a classic in many households, and for good reason. The combination of tender broccoli, rich cheddar, and a velvety soup base makes for a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s hearty, satisfying, and incredibly versatile.
What makes this soup truly special is its ability to bring joy to people in different settings, whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or enjoying it during your lunch break at work. The fact that it’s so easy to make at home only adds to its appeal, and with a few tweaks, it can easily be tailored to suit dietary preferences and needs.
Whether you’re recreating Panera’s Broccoli Cheese Soup in your kitchen or savoring it at the café, there’s no denying that this classic comfort food will remain a beloved favorite for many years to come. The combination of simple ingredients, rich flavors, and easy preparation ensures that this soup continues to win hearts, one spoonful at a time.
