Homemade Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

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Homemade Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup: The Comfort Food You Needed

If you’ve ever craved that creamy, dreamy broccoli cheese soup from Panera, you’re not alone. This homemade version brings that delightful experience right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy it any time you like. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a cozy meal, this soup not only warms you up but also fills your home with irresistible aromas. With rich flavors and a velvety texture, it’s an all-time favorite for families and individuals alike.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Why make this homemade Panera broccoli cheese soup? There are countless reasons! First off, you have the control to make it healthier by adjusting the ingredients to your liking, and it’s a budget-friendly option compared to eating out. This comforting soup is versatile enough to serve as a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, making it perfect for weeknight meals or even casual gatherings with friends.

“This soup took me back to my college days…so creamy and delicious! A huge hit with the kids, who even asked for seconds!” — A happy home cook.

The Cooking Process Explained

Making this homemade soup is an approachable and enjoyable process. Here’s a brief overview:

Start with a vibrant blend of vegetables simmered in chicken broth.
Create a roux with butter and flour for that luscious base.
Combine everything and stir in the rich cheese for extra flavor.
Finish with some gentle simmering to let those flavors meld.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm bowl of joy ready in no time!

What You’ll Need

Bowl of homemade Panera broccoli cheese soup garnished with fresh broccoli.

Gather these items for your homemade Panera broccoli cheese soup:

3 cups broccoli florets (chopped into bite-sized pieces; reserve 1/2 cup for later)
2 cups chicken broth
1 heaping cup cheddar cheese (freshly grated, plus extra for topping)
1 heaping cup asiago cheese (freshly grated)
1 cup fresh carrots (shredded)
1 large onion (diced)
2 large cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
Black pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute any cheese based on your preference! For a lighter soup, you could even experiment with low-fat cheese or alternative broth options.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, broccoli (minus the reserved 1/2 cup), onions, garlic, and carrots. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently for about 7 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the onions are soft. Set aside.
In a separate large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour continuously about a minute until combined.
Remove the pot from heat, and gradually stir in the broccoli mixture. Mix well, and slowly incorporate the heavy cream. Lower the heat and let it simmer.
Stir in all the spices and the cheeses, stirring until fully melted and combined. Allow it to simmer for another 7 minutes on low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
In the meantime, steam the reserved broccoli in the microwave until soft.
Garnish your soup with the steamed broccoli and a sprinkle of freshly grated cheddar cheese on top. Enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve your homemade Panera broccoli cheese soup steaming hot in a bowl, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. It’s also delightful alongside a grilled cheese sandwich, making it a hearty meal everyone will love. For a fancy touch, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftover soup fresh, store it in airtight containers in the fridge. It can last up to three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions for busy days—just make sure to leave out any toppings when freezing to maintain texture! To reheat, gently warm over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently. You could also use a microwave, but stir every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Cheese Matters: For the best flavor, always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which can contain anti-caking agents that affect the melting quality.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in other veggies like spinach or cauliflower for more nutrition!
Make it Spicy: If you’re a fan of spice, consider increasing the amount of cayenne pepper or adding a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Creative Twists

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Here are some variations to consider:

Vegan Version: Swap the cream for coconut milk and use plant-based cheeses and broth.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of blue cheese for a gourmet twist.
Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or cooked quinoa for a heartier option.

Your Questions Answered

1. What’s the prep time for this soup?
Prep time generally takes about 15 minutes, with cooking time around 25-30 minutes, so you can have this ready in under an hour!

2. Can I use frozen broccoli instead?
Yes! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as it may soften faster than fresh broccoli.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener in place of regular flour.

This homemade Panera broccoli cheese soup is a comforting classic you’ll want to whip up time and again. Enjoy the wholesome goodness and let the flavors bring warmth to your dining table!