Introduction to Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
When the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a cozy hug. Homemade soup is a wonderfully comforting choice for a number of reasons. First, the aroma of simmering ingredients fills your kitchen, creating an inviting ambiance that can lift anyone’s spirits. It's an activity that draws friends and family together around the table, making it a perfect meal for sharing.
This copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup brings the beloved café dish right into your home, with all the rich flavor and creamy texture you crave. Not only is it packed with nutritious ingredients like broccoli and carrots, but it’s also a hearty meal that satisfies your hunger. By making this soup from scratch, you have full control over the ingredients and can customize it to your taste.
Imagine comforting yourself after a stressful day at work with a warm bowl in hand, reminiscing about that delightful Panera experience. Each spoonful not only warms you up but also reminds you of the pleasure of a homemade meal. For more information on the benefits of homemade soups, check out this great article.
Ready to dive in and create something delicious? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Essential ingredients for a creamy, tasty soup
To create a deliciously creamy and hearty copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup, you'll need several key ingredients. Start with:
- Butter: This adds richness and depth, making your soup luscious.
- Onion: A small yellow onion, chopped finely, offers a subtle sweetness.
- Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the soup, giving it that comforting texture.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are essential for that signature flavor and vibrant color.
- Carrots: Matchstick-cut carrots add a bit of sweetness and crunch.
- Cheddar Cheese: Pre-shredded sharp cheddar gives that melty goodness and robust flavor.
- Heavy Cream: This is essential for creating a silky, luxurious consistency.
Optional ingredients for added flavor
Looking to elevate your copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup experience? Consider incorporating these optional ingredients:
- Processed Cheese: Cubes of Velveeta enhance creaminess, making the soup even more indulgent.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a touch adds a delightful tang.
- Hot Sauce: A splash can spice things up beautifully!
- Paprika and White Pepper: These spices add a hint of warmth and complexity while enhancing the overall flavor.
Feel free to play around with these additions to make this soup truly your own! If you're interested in variations, check out some great tips on homemade soups at The Kitchn.
Preparing Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Creating a cozy bowl of copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup at home is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal without stepping outside. Let’s dive into the process step by step and transform your kitchen into a haven for creamy, cheesy goodness!
Prepare your kitchen
Before you get started, it’s crucial to ensure your kitchen is prepped for action. Gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- Salted butter
- Chopped yellow onion
- All-purpose flour
- Water and heavy cream
- Chicken stock base
- Fresh broccoli and carrots
- Sharp cheddar cheese and processed cheese
- Mustard, hot sauce, paprika, white pepper, and kosher salt
Make sure you have your cooking utensils ready: a large pot, a spatula for stirring, and measuring cups and spoons. Having everything ready allows the cooking process to flow smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying the experience—and the delicious results!
Make the base of the soup
In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Toss in the onions and cook them until they soften and become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the remaining butter and watch it melt into a bubbly delight. This aroma is the perfect start! Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly until it turns a lovely golden brown.
Now, gradually mix in the water and heavy cream until smooth. This is the heart of your soup base, so take your time—perfection is worth it!
Add the veggies and bring it to life
Next, it’s time to incorporate the vegetables! Add your finely chopped broccoli and carrot matchsticks to the pot. Stir occasionally and bring it to a gentle simmer. You’ll want to let it cook until the veggies are tender, typically around 10 to 12 minutes. This step is critical; it ensures all those flavors meld beautifully!
Incorporate the cheese for creaminess
Once the vegetables are ready, turn off the heat and gradually mix in the star of the show: cheese! Combines the shredded sharp cheddar and cube processed cheese until they melt into the creamy soup. Add in the Dijon mustard, hot sauce, paprika, white pepper, and kosher salt. This mixture is going to create that signature velvety finish that makes this copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup so memorable.
Serve and enjoy!
Now comes the rewarding part—serving! Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, consider garnishing with an extra sprinkle of cheese or some freshly cracked pepper. Pair it with crusty bread or a warm baguette for an all-around delightful meal.
Enjoy your cozy kitchen creation; it's the perfect dish to share with friends or savor all by yourself! If you loved this recipe, consider leaving a comment and let’s celebrate the joys of cooking together!
Variations on Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Experimenting with your homemade copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup opens up a world of flavors.
Broccoli Cheddar with Turkey Bacon
For a heartier twist, consider adding crispy turkey bacon. The smoky flavor complements the creamy cheese and fresh broccoli beautifully. Simply cook the turkey bacon until crispy, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and stir it in just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch!
Vegan Version with Plant-Based Cream
If you’re looking to make a plant-based version, swapping out the heavy cream for a rich plant-based cream can easily transform this dish. Use coconut cream or cashew cream for that creamy texture without the dairy. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning, as different plant-based creams can have varying flavor profiles.
These variations make it easy to customize your copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup to suit any dietary preference while keeping it delicious!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
How to Ensure the Perfect Consistency
For a smooth and creamy copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup, the key is in the base. When adding the flour, make sure to stir continuously until it achieves a pale golden color — this helps eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the liquid, ensuring there are no lumps. If the soup becomes too thick, feel free to add a bit more water or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Cheese Melting Techniques for Best Results
To achieve that velvety cheese texture, add your sharp cheddar and processed cheese slowly to the soup once it’s off the heat. This minimizes the risk of the cheese clumping or becoming grainy. For the best melting results, consider using a mix of cheddar types — medium or sharp can elevate the flavor profile! Be sure to stir vigorously until completely melted and enjoy every creamy sip.
Serving suggestions for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairing with bread for a complete meal
What better way to enjoy your copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup than with freshly baked bread? A warm, crusty baguette or a soft sourdough loaf perfectly compliments the creamy texture of the soup. You could even hollow out a bread bowl to serve the soup right in it—how fun is that?
Great accompaniments to enhance flavors
To elevate your meal, consider adding a light, fresh salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette. This contrast balances the richness of the soup. For protein, grilled chicken or turkey bacon makes a delightful addition, enhancing the dish while keeping it satisfying. And don’t forget a sprinkle of extra cheese or croutons for that delightful crunch.
Want more serving ideas? Check out this bread pairing guide by Bon Appétit. With these suggestions, your copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup experience will be anything but ordinary!
Time Breakdown for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Preparation Time
Getting ready for the copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup only takes about 5 minutes. Chop your onions and carrots, gather all your ingredients, and you'll be set to go. This is the perfect time to rev up your kitchen playlist!
Cooking Time
Once you dive into cooking, set aside an additional 20 minutes. It’s a quick process of simmering the vegetables and melting the creamy cheeses. You’ll have a delicious, cozy bowl of soup before you know it!
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend just 25 minutes from prep to table. This makes it an easy weeknight dish or a last-minute lunch idea. So, get those pots ready, and enjoy this delightful, creamy soup that warms both the body and soul!
Nutritional Facts for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Calories per Serving
Enjoying a bowl of copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup? Each serving packs in about 467 calories. This makes it a satisfying choice for a cozy lunch or dinner!
Protein Content
Not only is this soup delicious, but it also provides a solid dose of 14 grams of protein per serving. The blend of cheeses and hearty vegetables helps keep you full and energized throughout your day.
Fat and Carbohydrate Breakdown
When it comes to fats and carbs, this delectable soup contains 41 grams of fat and 13 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The rich texture comes from the heavy cream and cheeses, giving you that indulgent feel without compromising on flavor.
Looking to elevate your meal? Pair this soup with a fresh salad or a slice of crusty bread! For more tips on nutritional eating, check out the USDA for insightful guides. Happy cooking!
FAQs about Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! To whip up a copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup that’s gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. This will help you achieve the same creamy texture without the gluten. Most brands have excellent options that bake and cook almost identically to regular flour.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to leave some room in the container as the soup will expand when frozen!
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
The best way to reheat copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that smooth, creamy goodness. If you're short on time, you can also heat it in the microwave; just be sure to do it in short bursts to avoid overheating and separating the ingredients.
If you're craving more inspiration for your next cooking adventure, check out this guide on soup storage for tips!
Conclusion on Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
There’s nothing quite like the joy of cooking a copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup in your own kitchen. It's creamy, comforting, and full of flavor, making it the perfect dish to warm up a chilly evening. Plus, sharing this homemade goodness with friends and family can create delightful moments and memorable meals. So grab your ingredients and savor the satisfaction of a homemade soup that rivals your favorite cafe!
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter divided
- 1 small yellow onion chopped (about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups water
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chicken stock base such as Better than Bouillon
Vegetables and Cheese
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets from 1 small crown broccoli
- ½ cup carrot matchsticks from 1 small carrot or pre-cut
- 6 ounces pre-shredded sharp cheddar cheese about 1 ½ cups
- 2 ounces processed cheese cubed, such as Velveeta
Spices and Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce such as Tabasco
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
Method
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until they soften and become translucent, 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the remaining 3 tablespoons butter and cook, stirring constantly, until melted, about 1 minute. Add the flour and continue stirring until it bubbles and turns pale golden brown, about 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in the water and cream until smooth, followed by the stock base.
- Stir in the broccoli and carrots, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, 10 to 12 minutes.
- Turn the heat off and gradually stir in the cheddar cheese and processed cheese until fully melted, about 1 minute. Add the mustard, hot sauce, paprika, pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine. Serve warm.
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