Name: Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter (cut into chunks); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 2 large carrots, peeled and julienned (about 1 heaping cup); 2 stalks celery, sliced (about 1 heaping cup); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 16 ounces chicken stock or broth; 3 cups broccoli florets; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving the comforting, creamy goodness of Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheese Soup, look no further! This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe delivers all the flavors you love from the restaurant right in your own kitchen. With tender broccoli, a velvety cheese base, and a touch of seasoning, this homemade version is just as delicious—and even more satisfying. Perfect for chilly nights or as a cozy lunch, it’s easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.

By recreating this classic, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of rich, cheesy soup with fresh ingredients. You’ll love how simple it is to put together, and you can adjust the texture to your preference. Whether you like it smooth or chunky, this soup can be customized to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup is indulgent, creamy, and full of flavor. It combines fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and broccoli with a sharp cheddar cheese base, making it a hearty, filling meal. The best part is you can control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to suit your preference, whether you prefer a smoother consistency or a chunkier bite. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping or serving at a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter
Garlic
Yellow onion
Carrots
Celery
Salt
Pepper
All-purpose flour
Milk
Chicken stock or broth
Broccoli florets
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Variations

Gluten-Free: Omit the flour to make the soup gluten-free. You can also use a gluten-free flour alternative if desired.
Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with olive oil and use non-dairy milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Extra Veggies: Add cauliflower, mushrooms, or green peppers for a fun twist on the classic soup.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a little heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a Dutch oven or large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, chopped onions, julienned carrots, sliced celery, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

Add the flour to the vegetables and stir to coat them. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly. After the milk is incorporated, pour in the chicken stock or broth and stir again.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Turn the heat to medium-high. Once the mixture begins to bubble, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the soup and continue simmering on medium-low heat, covered, for an additional 10 minutes, until the broccoli is tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and smooth.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot. For extra flavor, top with croutons or a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

For a Smoother Consistency: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup for a creamy texture, or blend a portion of the soup if you prefer some chunks.
Make it Thicker: If you’d like a thicker soup, use heavy cream instead of milk, or cook the soup a little longer to allow it to reduce.
Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for added protein and flavor.
Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking, and add a dash of cayenne for a bit of spice.

How to Serve

This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a light meal, or as a starter before your main dish. It pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a chilled iced tea, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk or broth if necessary to reach the desired consistency.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. After the soup has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly when frozen and thawed, but it will still be delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, place the soup in a pot on the stovetop over low heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Just add them in with the other ingredients and simmer until tender.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make the soup gluten-free, omit the flour, or use a gluten-free flour substitute.

4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock?

Yes, vegetable broth works well in this recipe for a vegetarian version of the soup.

5. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, feel free to add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for extra protein.

6. How do I make this soup spicier?

To add some spice, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

7. Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?

Yes, using heavy cream will make the soup thicker and richer. You can substitute equal parts of heavy cream for the milk.

8. How long should I cook the soup?

Simmer the soup for about 25 minutes—15 minutes for the base and another 10 minutes after adding the broccoli.

9. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, but cheddar is the traditional choice for this recipe.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

This Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup brings the deliciousness of the restaurant right into your kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, and full of tender vegetables, this soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you can enjoy this soup any time, whether for a quick weeknight meal or a special treat. Give it a try, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!