Description
Craving a cozy, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a hug? This Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a rich, creamy, and cheesy delight packed with tender broccoli and sweet carrots. Perfect as a quick dinner, easy lunch, or comforting food idea, this easy recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half
3 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Pinch red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat then sauté onion until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly.
2. Stir in flour and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth then add half-and-half stirring until smooth.
4. Add broccoli and carrots then simmer for 15–20 minutes until tender.
5. Blend part of the soup if a smoother texture is desired.
6. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Season with nutmeg salt pepper and optional red pepper flakes then serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheddar for the smoothest texture and best flavor.
Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
Adjust thickness by adding more broth or simmering longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg