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Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat

Close-up of a bowl of creamy Panera broccoli cheddar soup copycat, featuring tender broccoli florets and rich, cheesy broth.

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Make a creamy, cheesy broccoli cheddar soup just like Panera’s at home. This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 medium)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (from about 1 pound broccoli)
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  2. Add broccoli florets, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
  3. Carefully transfer about half of the soup mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Return the pureed soup to the pot.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over low heat, stirring constantly. Do not boil.
  5. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
  6. Serve hot, optionally in a bread bowl.

Notes

  • For a thicker soup, use less broth or water.
  • You can add shredded carrots along with the broccoli for extra color and flavor.
  • Serve with crusty bread for dipping or in a hollowed-out bread bowl.

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