Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup diced onions yellow or white
1 cup shredded carrots I used matchsticks that I cut into half inch pieces
2 1/2-3 cups broccoli florets chopped small
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup milk I use skim/fat free
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or more as desired
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1:
In a large pot over medium high heat, melt butter.
Add in onions, carrots and broccoli.
Cook to soften about 5 minutes (may be more or less depending on the size vegetables you cut).
Step 2:
Slowly add in broth, milk, and cream.
Sprinkle with flour and add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.
Continue stirring and heating over medium heat until thickened.
This will take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3:
Once thick, add cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
Serve soup and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 724kcal, Carbohydrates: 39g, Protein: 26g, Fat: 55g, Saturated Fat: 33g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 17g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 160mg, Sodium: 1374mg, Fiber: 11g, Sugar: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different vegetables in this soup?
Yes, you can customize the vegetables to your preference.
While broccoli and carrots are traditional, you can also add cauliflower, potatoes, or peas for variation.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken broth without compromising the flavor of the soup.
What can I substitute for heavy whipping cream if I want a lighter version?
If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute the heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
This will result in a slightly less creamy texture but will still be delicious.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative.
Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.
Is it necessary to use both milk and heavy whipping cream?
Using both milk and heavy whipping cream creates a rich and creamy texture in the soup.
However, if you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the heavy cream and use only milk.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While cheddar cheese adds a classic flavor to this soup, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Gruyère, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping when adding it to the soup?
To prevent the cheese from clumping, make sure to gradually add it to the soup while stirring continuously.
This helps the cheese melt evenly and incorporate smoothly into the soup.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the soup gluten-free.
Alternatively, you can omit the flour altogether or use a thickening agent like cornstarch.
Can I add other seasonings to customize the flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor of the soup according to your taste preferences.
How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
What are some serving suggestions for this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad.
You can also serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarian diets?
While this recipe contains chicken broth, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
Additionally, ensure that the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.