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Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This creamy and cheesy soup is packed with vibrant green broccoli, making it a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
Base
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to make the roux
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Creaminess
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese use high-quality cheese for best flavor
Seasoning
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • optional garlic powder or nutmeg for added flavor

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  2. Add 1 cup of chopped onions and 1 cup of shredded carrots. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the carrots soften, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to avoid clumping.
  4. Gradually pour in 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth while continuously stirring. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cooking
  1. Add 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets to the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  2. For that creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or let it cool slightly and blend it in batches in a countertop blender.
  3. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste.
Serving
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional cheddar if desired. Enjoy it warm!

Notes

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to retain its creamy texture.