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Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A rich and creamy homemade broccoli cheddar soup loaded with tender broccoli, sweet carrots, and sharp cheddar cheese, just like the famous Panera favorite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 390
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables and Cheese
  • 3 cups broccoli florets chopped small
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded
  • 0.5 cup mild cheddar cheese freshly shredded
Seasoning and Garnish
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.25 tsp paprika optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley optional garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Cook onion for 4–5 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
  5. Add milk and heavy cream and stir well.
  6. Add broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
  7. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  8. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
  9. Do not boil after adding cheese. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Notes

Freshly shredded cheese creates the smoothest texture. Keep the heat low after adding cheese to prevent grainy soup.