Panera Bread CopyCat Broccoli Cheese Soup

Transport yourself to the cozy comforts of Panera Bread with our CopyCat Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe. Bursting with creamy richness and wholesome flavors, this homemade version of Panera’s iconic soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch, a comforting dinner, or simply looking to recreate the beloved flavors of Panera Bread at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Join us as we delve into the ingredients and steps to prepare this irresistible soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• ½ medium chopped onion
• ¼ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup flour
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ½ lb fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup carrot, julienned
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onion: In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in 1 tablespoon of melted butter over medium heat until softened and translucent.
2. Prepare the Roux: Add an additional 1/4 cup of melted butter to the pot. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Cream and Stock: Gradually pour in the half-and-half cream and chicken stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Vegetables: Add the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season: Season the soup with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
7. Blend (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of vegetables intact.
8. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the soup.
9. Serve: Ladle the warm and creamy Broccoli Cheese Soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese or chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Extra Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, substitute part of the chicken stock with additional half-and-half cream.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as cauliflower, spinach, or peas.
• Bacon Bliss: Enhance the flavor of the soup by adding cooked and crumbled bacon as a garnish or mixing it into the soup.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

• Keto Version: To make this soup keto-friendly, replace the flour with a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum or almond flour. Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half and ensure that the chicken stock is low in carbohydrates or use homemade bone broth.
• Low Carb Version: Reduce the amount of carrots or omit them entirely to lower the carb content of the soup. You can also use a combination of cauliflower and broccoli to further reduce the carb count.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh broccoli in this recipe. Simply thaw the frozen broccoli before adding it to the soup.
2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of freshly grated? While pre-shredded cheese can be convenient, freshly grated cheese tends to melt more smoothly and evenly, resulting in a creamier soup texture. However, pre-shredded cheese can still be used if that’s what you have on hand.
3. How do I store leftover soup? Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for the chicken stock and omit the bacon. You can also add extra vegetables or plant-based protein sources such as tofu or chickpeas for added texture and flavor.

In conclusion, Panera Bread CopyCat Broccoli Cheese Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the warmth and flavor of Panera Bread right to your own kitchen. With its creamy texture, rich cheese flavor, and wholesome vegetables, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty lunch, a cozy dinner, or a comforting snack, this homemade version of Panera’s iconic soup is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort with Panera Bread CopyCat Broccoli Cheese Soup!