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Copy Cat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup

Copy Cat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheese Soup is a warm, creamy delight that captures the essence of comfort food. This homemade version features tender broccoli florets enveloped in a rich, cheesy broth, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or cozy lunches. With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can create a satisfying meal that rivals your favorite café without breaking the bank.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 medium carrot (optional), shredded

Instructions

  1. Prepare your veggies: Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces; shred carrots if using.
  2. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and add onion and garlic; cook until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add flour: Sprinkle flour over cooked onions and garlic; stir for about two minutes.
  4. Pour in broth: Gradually add broth while stirring to prevent lumps; bring to a gentle boil, then simmer.
  5. Add broccoli & carrots: Stir in chopped broccoli and shredded carrots; cook until tender but bright green (about 5-7 minutes).
  6. Stir in cream & cheese: Lower heat, add heavy cream and grated cheddar cheese; stir until melted and creamy.
  • Author: Stefanie Weber
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For a gourmet twist, swap sharp cheddar for Gruyère cheese. Add cooked chicken for extra protein or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.