Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Flavorful Delight

Craving the comforting taste of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup? You’re in the right place! This copycat recipe packs all the flavor you love into a homemade dish. With fresh broccoli, rich cheddar, and simple pantry staples, it’s easy to whip up. I’ll guide you through each step, from sautéing veggies to creating the perfect creamy texture. Let’s dive into this flavorful delight and make your own bowl of happiness!

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

– 4 cups broccoli florets

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 carrots, diced

Fresh ingredients bring life to your soup. Broccoli florets add a nice crunch and bright color. The onion gives a sweet flavor, while garlic adds depth. Carrots add a hint of sweetness and a lovely texture.

Pantry Staples

– 1/4 cup butter

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 4 cups vegetable broth

– 2 cups whole milk

You need pantry staples for a creamy base. Butter adds richness, while flour thickens your soup. Vegetable broth gives a savory taste, and whole milk provides creaminess. These ingredients create a comforting foundation for your dish.

Seasoning and Garnish

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Seasoning is key to great flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese gives a rich, cheesy taste. Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Paprika adds a touch of warmth, and fresh parsley brightens your dish as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Base

To start, you need to sauté the onion and garlic. Melt 1/4 cup of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mix for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion looks clear.

Next, it’s time to add the broccoli and carrots. Toss in 4 cups of broccoli florets and 2 diced carrots. Stir them together. Cook for another 5 minutes. You want the veggies to soften a bit but not turn mushy.

Creating the Roux

After the veggies are ready, you create a roux. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This will help thicken your soup later.

Combining Ingredients

Now, add the vegetable broth. Slowly pour in 4 cups while whisking. This helps avoid lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.

Next, incorporate the milk. Pour in 2 cups of whole milk and stir well. Let this cook for 10 to 15 minutes. This step allows the soup to thicken nicely.

Finally, add the cheese and seasonings. Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts. Then mix in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Give it a good stir.

Remove the pot from heat. Let the soup sit for 5 minutes before serving. If you want a creamier texture, use an immersion blender. Serve hot, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

To get the best flavor in your soup, choose sharp cheddar cheese. It adds rich taste and depth. A good blend of flavors comes from good cheese. You can also adjust cooking times. If you prefer a thicker soup, cook it a bit longer. Don’t rush; patience helps the flavors mix well.

Texture Considerations

Texture plays a big role. Blending the soup gives it a creamy feel. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender for this. If you prefer chunkier soup, blend just half. When choosing broccoli, fresh broccoli is best. It gives a bright color and better crunch. Frozen broccoli works too, but it may change the texture slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your soup with a crusty bread or a fresh salad. A side of crackers adds a nice crunch. For a garnish, fresh parsley looks great on top. You can also sprinkle extra cheese for a cheesy touch. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. Your soup will look as good as it tastes!

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-free alternatives

To make this soup gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Mix the cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry. Stir this in after adding the broth. The soup will still thicken nicely.

Vegan version tips

For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk, like almond or coconut milk. Replace cheese with a vegan cheese option or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add more veggies for extra texture.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding spices

To boost flavor, try adding spices like cayenne pepper or garlic powder. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also add warmth. These spices make the soup more exciting and delicious.

Including proteins

You can easily add proteins to the soup. Cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu blend well in this dish. This will create a more filling meal and add extra nutrition.

Seasonal Ingredients

Using seasonal vegetables

Make this soup even better by adding seasonal veggies. Try adding peas in spring or squash in fall. Seasonal produce gives the soup fresh flavors and vibrant colors.

Other cheese options

While sharp cheddar is classic, you can use other cheeses. Gruyère or fontina adds a unique taste. Mixing different cheeses creates a rich and creamy soup that’s hard to resist.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store your leftover soup, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. The soup stays good in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before eating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as soup expands when frozen. The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, move the container to the fridge overnight to thaw.

Reheating Methods

You can reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop, heat it gently in a pot over medium heat. Stir often to avoid sticking. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring in between. To prevent separation, avoid boiling the soup after adding milk. Stir well for a smooth texture before serving.

FAQs

How can I make this soup spicier?

To spice up this soup, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Start with a pinch, then taste. You can also mix in jalapeños for a fresh kick. Adding a splash of hot sauce can give it a nice heat too.

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, you can use low-fat milk. It will still work well but may change the soup’s creaminess. If you want a thicker texture, consider adding a little more cheese.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?

If you want to swap cheddar cheese, try Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Both offer a great taste and melt nicely. For a dairy-free option, use vegan cheese brands that melt well.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just let it cool completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What is the best way to serve this soup?

Serve the soup hot in a bowl, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs well with crusty bread or a salad. For a fun twist, try serving it in a bread bowl for a complete meal experience.

This blog post shared how to make a delicious soup. We discussed fresh ingredients, like broccoli, onion, and garlic, along with pantry staples. I showed you how to create a smooth base using simple steps. We explored tips for the best flavor and texture. You can even customize this soup with dietary adjustments and seasonal options. Remember, proper storage keeps your soup fresh longer. Enjoy creating this dish, and feel free to experiment with your favorite flavor