This Panera’s Soup Recipe Will Make You Drool

With the chill of autumn in the air, there’s nothing more comforting than diving into a bowl of warm, hearty soup. And who does soup better than Panera? Known for its rich flavors, generous toppings, and soul-soothing warmth, Panera’s soup lineup is undoubtedly a fan favorite. While there’s much to choose from their savory collection, one stands out as particularly drool-worthy. And guess what? We’ve got a recipe inspired by it just for you.

A Classic Worth Recreating

When it comes to soup, some classics never fade, and Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar soup is one such dish. The velvety texture, the rich cheesy aroma, and the crunch of broccoli make it a bowl full of happiness. While the exact secret recipe remains a mystery, we’ve whipped up something that might just be the next best thing.

Tip: Using fresh broccoli florets and high-quality aged cheddar can elevate your soup to gourmet levels.

The Magic Behind the Flavor

While broccoli and cheddar are the stars of the show, there’s a symphony of ingredients working behind the scenes to create that iconic taste. Onions and garlic set the aromatic base, while a dash of nutmeg adds an unexpected yet delightful twist. A combination of cream and vegetable broth provides the luscious consistency we all crave.

Tip: Sautéing onions until translucent, not brown, ensures they impart flavor without overpowering the soup.

Of course, the broccoli deserves a special mention. Aside from its unmistakable taste, broccoli is packed with vitamins and minerals. It’s the kind of comfort food that your body will thank you for.

Soup It Up With Some Tools

Getting the right consistency and blend of flavors isn’t just about ingredients. The tools you use can make a world of difference. For a soup of this caliber, an efficient hand blender or a sturdy soup pot is key. If you’re on the hunt for one, we’ve got you covered. Check out these top-rated hand blenders or these soup pots that can take your cooking to the next level.

Tip: When blending hot soup, always ensure the blender is tightly sealed and start at a low speed to prevent splashes and burns.

Final Thoughts:

Recreating a legendary dish is no small feat, but with the right approach and a dash of culinary passion, anything is possible. This Panera-inspired soup may not be the real secret recipe, but it sure is a bowl filled with love. So, the next time you’re craving comfort in a dish, why not whip this up and soup-rise your loved ones?

Tip: Always taste and adjust seasonings as you go. Every palate is unique, so make the dish your own!

Panera-Inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Course: SoupCuisine: American

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

380

kcal

Total time

40

minutes

A velvety, cheesy delight that warms the soul with every spoonful.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups fresh broccoli florets

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 2 cups shredded aged cheddar cheese

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

• In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
• Add broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
• Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer, ensuring not to boil.
• Gradually add in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted into the soup.
• Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
• Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
• Serve hot, garnished with extra shredded cheese or croutons if desired.
• Enjoy your Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

Notes

• For a thicker consistency, you can blend half the soup and then mix it back.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
• You can also add carrots for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen broccoli can be used. Just ensure you thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
A: While heavy cream gives a richer taste, you can use milk for a lighter version. However, the soup might be less creamy.

Q: How can I store leftover soup?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan butter, use a plant-based broth, swap out the heavy cream for a non-dairy milk or cream, and use vegan cheese.