Description

Warm up with a bowl of this creamy, savory broccoli cheddar soup that captures the essence of Panera’s beloved classic. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of cream to create a comforting dish perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality soup in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups chopped fresh broccoli
1 cup shredded carrots
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and carrots, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the chopped broccoli along with salt and pepper; cook for another 5 minutes until bright green.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well; let it cook for about 2 minutes.
Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for approximately 20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth (or leave some chunks if preferred).
Stir in heavy cream followed by shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
Calories: 330
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - For gluten-free options, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. - Feel free to add other vegetables like cauliflower or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added spice. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.