It’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm that hugs you from the inside out. Enter Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)—a creamy, cheesy bowl of comfort that feels like a cozy blanket for your soul. Imagine sinking your spoon into thick, velvety goodness, with vibrant green broccoli peeking through like little forest trees waving hello. cozy pumpkin dinner rolls comforting chicken soup recipe It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel like you’ve just won the lottery of comfort food. For more inspiration, check out this chicken broccoli alfredo recipe.
Now, let’s be real: who hasn’t had a moment where they stared longingly at their empty bowl, wishing for just one more spoonful? This recipe will not only fill that void but also transport you to a warm café on a rainy day. Grab your ingredients and let’s embark on this delightful culinary adventure together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Broccoli Cheddar Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its rich flavor profile balances the earthy broccoli with sharp cheddar for perfection
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Perfect for cold days, but versatile enough for any occasion!
I remember the first time I made this soup; my kids practically licked their bowls clean and begged for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh is best! Look for bright green florets without yellowing or wilting.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for maximum flavor.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté it until soft and aromatic.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; mince finely to release its full aroma. garlic parmesan potato packets.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness in your soup.
- Heavy Cream: For creaminess and richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons will help sauté the vegetables and add flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite; adjust according to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
Add the Broccoli: Stir in fresh broccoli florets and sauté them briefly. They should turn vibrant green, making your kitchen smell like pure happiness.
Add Liquid Gold: Pour in vegetable broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Let the broccoli soften for about 10 minutes—just enough time to catch your breath.
Blend It Up: Carefully blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth. For an even creamier texture, transfer batches to a standard blender if needed.
Add Creamy Goodness: Return the blended soup back to low heat. Slowly stir in heavy cream while being careful not to boil it—nobody likes curdled soup.
Melt in the Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it’s melted and fully incorporated into your creamy masterpiece.
Now that you have created this delightful Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat), grab a thick slice of crusty bread or some crunchy crackers—and enjoy every savory bite! For more inspiration, check out this shrimp and broccoli pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- Elevate your Broccoli Cheddar Soup experience with fresh ingredients for vibrant flavor
- The creamy texture is best when using sharp cheddar, creating a delightful balance with the broccoli
- A splash of lemon juice brightens it up, making every spoonful a joy
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add in your broccoli and broth. perfect ham glaze for gatherings Simmer until tender, blend until smooth, and stir in cheese for that gooey perfection.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping out some of the broccoli for kale or adding in diced carrots for color. Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or nutmeg to enhance the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain its creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated cheese to avoid clumping and ensure smooth melting
- If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain excess water to prevent a watery soup
- Adjust seasoning carefully; taste as you go for perfect balance!
Creating my first batch of Broccoli Cheddar Soup was nothing short of magical; my friends devoured it like hungry hippos at a buffet.
FAQ
Can I use frozen broccoli for Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, but thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in the soup.
What should I serve with Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick up the heat.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup that captures the essence of café-style dining at home. This creamy, cheesy delight is packed with vibrant broccoli and rich cheddar, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will warm your soul and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the broccoli florets and sauté briefly until bright green.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth (or transfer it to a regular blender in batches).
- Return the blended soup to low heat. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, being careful not to boil.
- Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and well combined.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded varieties—opt for block cheese for maximum flavor. For added nutrition, consider substituting some broccoli with kale or adding diced carrots for extra color. Spice it up with cayenne or nutmeg for an exciting flavor twist!