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Ultimate Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Close-up of a bowl filled with vibrant, creamy yellow broccoli cheddar soup featuring large florets of green broccoli.
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Make this rich, creamy broccoli cheddar soup at home. This recipe delivers the comforting flavor of the restaurant favorite using simple ingredients, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Whisk in the flour to the softened vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream. Do not let the soup boil once the cream is added.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the cottage cheese now if you are using it.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve this easy comfort food recipe hot.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheddar cheese from a block for the best melting quality and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • For a thicker soup, mash about one cup of the cooked broccoli and vegetable mixture against the side of the pot before adding the cheese.
  • This recipe makes a wonderful vegetarian comfort food option if you use vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/