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Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup hero shot

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

A delicious homemade copycat panera broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 390
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 2.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Saute. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until soft. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  2. Pour. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and half-and-half. Keep whisking to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  3. Simmer. Add broccoli florets, shredded carrot, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the soup has thickened.
  4. Melt. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve in bread bowls if you want the full Panera experience.

Notes

Grate your own cheese from a block. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Chop the broccoli into small, bite-sized pieces so you get some in every spoonful. Add the cheese off the heat to prevent it from getting grainy.