Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is thick, rich, and creamy with bites of tender broccoli, carrots, and a hint of nutmeg, all cooked together with freshly grated cheddar. Perfect for cold days!

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Keyword Broccoli Cheddar Soup, Broccoli Cheese Soup, Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1

Servings servings

Calories 370kcal

Author Michelle

Ingredients

6 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion finely chopped
¼ cup finely chopped celery
1 large carrot shredded
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
2 cups half-and-half
8 ounces sharp cheddar freshly grated
4 ounces mild cheddar freshly shredded

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
Add onion, celery, and carrot. Saute until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Add flour. Stir to combine, and allow to heat through.
Gradually add chicken broth, about ¼ cup at a time, stirring after each addition to prevent lumps.
Add bay leaves and nutmeg, and stir. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, and cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Add broccoli. Stir to combine. Simmer until tender, about 20 minutes.
Remove bay leaves. Then lightly blend soup with an immersion blender, leaving some larger pieces of broccoli.
Add half-and-half, and stir to combine. Allow to heat to steaming.
Stir in cheese until melted and incorporated.

Video

Notes

If using nutmeg (you should! It's delicious!), be sure to use freshly grated nutmeg. You can find it in the spices and seasonings section at the grocery store or here on Amazon. Then just grate it using a zester.
Make it vegetarian by using vegetable stock or broth instead of chicken broth.
Be careful when blending to avoid splatters (and burns).
Recommended equipment: Immersion blender
Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place in a large pot and heat over medium heat. For a single serving, place in a microwave-safe bowl, and heat for 1-2 minutes in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer Directions: Prepare soup according to recipe instructions. Allow to cool. Then transfer to a freezer dish or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a large stockpot over medium heat.

Nutrition