Description
Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup delights home cooks with its creamy richness and comforting warmth. Cheese and vegetables blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each spoonful of this beloved restaurant-style classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 pound fresh broccoli, chopped
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 carrot, peeled and shredded
Thickening and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Aromatic Base:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
Instructions
- In a spacious pot, gently caramelize diced onions in melted butter over medium heat until translucent and softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour into the onion mixture and incorporate remaining butter, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to develop a golden hue and rich aroma.
- Gradually introduce chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking methodically to prevent lumps and ensure a silky consistency.
- Incorporate finely chopped broccoli florets and julienned carrots into the liquid base. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and allow vegetables to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until they become tender but retain a slight crispness.
- Elevate the soup’s flavor profile by adding a delicate touch of nutmeg, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Fold in sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and creating a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and achieve optimal serving temperature.
Notes
- Softening Onions: Use medium-low heat when sautéing to prevent burning and develop a sweet, mellow flavor without browning.
- Roux Technique: Constantly stir the flour and butter mixture to avoid lumps and create a smooth, silky base for the soup.
- Cheese Melting Trick: Remove the pot from heat before adding cheese to prevent separation and maintain a creamy, smooth texture.
- Dietary Adaptations: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use gluten-free flour to make this soup vegetarian and gluten-free friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 60 g
- Saturated Fat: 36 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg