If you love the rich, cheesy goodness of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, this homemade version is just what you need. It’s warm, creamy, and packed with fresh vegetables, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch.
This recipe brings together tender broccoli, a creamy cheese-infused broth, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that tastes just like the one from your favorite café—if not better.
Whether you’re serving it in a bread bowl, alongside a crisp salad, or with grilled chicken, this easy one-pot recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Better Than Takeout – Enjoy the same creamy, cheesy flavor at home with fresh ingredients.
Simple & Budget-Friendly – No need to spend on restaurant soups when you can make a big batch at home.
Customizable – Adjust the texture, cheese, or even add extra vegetables to suit your taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort all week long.
Ingredients
To make this Panera-inspired Broccoli Cheese Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
Broth & Dairy:
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 2 cups half-and-half, whole milk, or heavy cream
Main Flavor Components:
- 3 to 4 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 to 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and grated carrot.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Step 2: Create the Soup Base
- Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. This will help thicken the soup.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly.
- Add the half-and-half (or milk/cream) and continue stirring to combine.
Step 3: Simmer with Broccoli
- Once the soup mixture starts to gently bubble, add the chopped broccoli.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The broccoli should become tender but not mushy.
Step 4: Add Cheese for a Creamy Finish
- Lower the heat to the lowest setting and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This thick, creamy broccoli cheddar soup pairs perfectly with:
A crusty bread bowl – Just like Panera, serve it inside a hollowed-out bread loaf.
Grilled cheese or garlic bread – Dunk warm, crispy bread into the rich, cheesy soup.
Grilled chicken – Serve with a side of seasoned chicken for a protein boost.
Fresh salad – A crisp green salad balances out the richness of the soup.
Expert Tips for the Best Soup
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a silky, creamy texture.
Adjust Thickness – If you prefer a thicker soup, use more flour or let it simmer a bit longer. For a lighter soup, add an extra splash of broth or milk.
Blended or Chunky? – For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup before adding the cheese. If you like it chunky, leave the broccoli pieces whole.
Make It Vegetarian – Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this a meat-free meal.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat slowly on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?
Yes! Frozen broccoli works just as well. Just add it straight to the soup without thawing and increase the simmering time by 5 minutes.
Can I Make It Without Flour?
Yes! If you prefer a gluten-free version, simply leave out the flour. The soup will be slightly thinner, or you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar gives the classic flavor, you can experiment with Gouda, Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan for extra depth.
Final Thoughts
This Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors. It’s a one-pot recipe that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it. Enjoy a bowl of homemade comfort food today!