How To Make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Topics:
Comment author avatar
Miriam Olson Modified: February 13, 2024
How To Make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

How To Make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re a fan of Panera Bread’s delicious broccoli cheddar soup, you’re in luck! Today, we’re going to show you how to recreate this creamy and flavorful dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of homemade Panera Bread broccoli cheddar soup that rivals the original.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by steaming the broccoli florets until they are tender. This will ensure that they blend smoothly into the soup later on.

2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until they are soft and fragrant.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and stir well to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes, until the mixture is golden brown.

4. Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.

5. Add the milk to the pot and stir until well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid accidents.

7. Return the soup to the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

8. Finally, add the steamed broccoli florets to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

9. Serve your homemade Panera Bread broccoli cheddar soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese or croutons.

With just a few easy steps, you can enjoy a bowl of the iconic Panera Bread broccoli cheddar soup right at home. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a taste of Panera. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

Have you tried making Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home? Share your experience and any tips you may have in the Recipe Sharing forum!
FAQ:
What are the ingredients needed to make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
To make Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you will need the following ingredients: broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, all-purpose flour, butter, milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
How do I prepare the broccoli for the soup?
Start by trimming the broccoli crowns into small florets. You can also peel and chop the broccoli stems if desired. Make sure to discard any tough or woody parts of the broccoli.
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli if you don’t have fresh broccoli available. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen broccoli before using it in the soup.
Do I need to cook the broccoli before adding it to the soup?
Yes, you should blanch or steam the broccoli florets for a few minutes until they are slightly tender before adding them into the soup. This helps to bring out their vibrant green color and retain their texture.
How can I make the soup thicker or thinner?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour or butter in the recipe. Alternatively, if you find the soup too thick, you can add more broth or milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?
While cheddar cheese provides a rich and creamy flavor to the soup, you can experiment with other cheeses if you prefer. Gruyere or a sharp white cheddar can be great alternatives or try a combination of different cheeses to customize the taste.
How do I store and reheat the leftover soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating it. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Was this page helpful?