Creamy Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Name: Creamy Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh broccoli florets; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Rich, velvety, and packed with fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, this delightful recipe brings the warm, cozy flavors of your favorite café right to your home. Perfect for pairing with a crusty bread roll or enjoying on its own, it’s a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-12-14T04:16:04.983Z

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a staple in many households, known for its cheesy goodness and heartwarming flavors. Using a combination of fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a creamy base, this recipe is sure to please.

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something truly special about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. This Creamy Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup perfectly embodies that comforting feeling. Made from fresh ingredients, including vibrant broccoli and rich cheddar cheese, this soup not only warms your body but also your soul. It’s an inviting dish that transports you straight to your favorite café, allowing you to enjoy high-quality comfort food right at home.

Making soup from scratch can be a therapeutic experience, blending fresh ingredients and letting them simmer to perfection. You control what goes into your meal, ensuring it’s wholesome and tailored to your taste. This recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup is straightforward yet rewarding, suitable for both novice and seasoned cooks. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious dish that rivals any restaurant offering.

Versatile Pairings for Your Soup

One of the best things about Broccoli Cheddar Soup is its versatility in pairing. It's perfect when served alongside a crusty bread roll for dipping, or you might choose a simple side salad to add a fresh touch. Another delightful option is a grilled cheese sandwich, which pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.

For those looking for a heartier meal, consider adding some cooked chicken or even a sprinkle of bacon on top just before serving. The smoky flavors of the bacon complement the creamy cheese while adding a satisfying crunch. This flexibility lets you enjoy the soup in various ways, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

Storing and Reheating Your Leftovers

Ingredients

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli florets
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients combine to create a delightful and creamy soup bursting with flavor.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Broccoli and Broth

Add the fresh broccoli florets to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.

Stir in Cheese and Cream

Return the pot to low heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs, if desired.

A Nutritional Boost

Broccoli is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamins C and K, it supports a healthy immune system and promotes bone health. Incorporating vegetables into your diet, like the fresh broccoli in this soup, is an excellent way to increase your intake of essential nutrients. Moreover, the sharp cheddar cheese adds calcium and protein, making this soup a satisfying meal in itself.

Feeling good about what you eat is crucial, and knowing that this soup is loaded with health benefits can make each spoonful even more enjoyable. With a combination of creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish makes it easy to meet your daily vegetable quota without feeling like a chore.

Customizing Your Soup Experience

One of the joys of preparing your own soup is the opportunity to customize it to your liking. Don't hesitate to experiment with different cheeses; while sharp cheddar is traditional, gouda or pepper jack can add distinct flavors. If you're a fan of herbs, try incorporating fresh thyme or basil for an aromatic twist, or even a hint of nutmeg for a warm undertone.

You can also adjust the thickness of your soup based on preference. If you prefer a thicker soup, simply blend more of the mixture until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, adding more vegetable broth will create a lighter, brothier version. Personalizing your soup makes each experience unique and special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.