Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe: A Copycat Attempt
Panera Bread's Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved classic. That creamy, cheesy, broccol-y goodness is hard to resist! While you can't get the exact recipe from Panera, this copycat recipe gets remarkably close. Get ready to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort food from the convenience of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe aims for authenticity, using ingredients that mimic the Panera experience as closely as possible. You may need to adjust quantities slightly based on your preference and the size of your pot.
- For the Soup Base:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these steps carefully to achieve that perfect creamy texture and savory flavor.
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Build the Flavor Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Blend for Creaminess:
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! Vent the blender to release steam.
4. Incorporate Cheese and Cream:
- Return the blended soup to the pot.
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or thyme to your liking.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish as desired. Croutons, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, or a swirl of cream are all delicious options.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli yields a brighter flavor, but frozen works just fine in a pinch. Make sure to thaw it completely before adding it to the soup if using frozen.
- Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar cheese is key to that authentic Panera taste. You can experiment with a blend of cheeses, but sharp cheddar should be the dominant cheese.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk or broth. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this creamy soup with a crusty bread for dipping.
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the rich flavors.
- For a heartier meal, serve with a grilled cheese sandwich.
This copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
