Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, broccoli cheddar soup is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

This vegetarian version is hearty enough for a main course and will quickly become a go-to favorite for cozy nights at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Broccoli cheddar soup combines the savory richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the earthy freshness of broccoli, creating a perfectly balanced dish. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a meat-free meal without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

This recipe is easy to prepare, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers a velvety texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup is versatile and appealing for all ages.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak some veggies into your diet!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this delectable broccoli cheddar soup:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk (or your favorite plant-based alternative)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
• Crusty bread or croutons (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets for even cooking. Peel and grate the carrot, then finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Base

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.

Step 4: Add the Broccoli

Toss in the broccoli florets and let them simmer for about 10 minutes, or until they are tender but still vibrant green. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.

Step 6: Incorporate Dairy and Spices

Lower the heat to prevent curdling. Stir in the milk and, if using, the heavy cream. Add the smoked paprika, ground mustard, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the soup, stirring constantly to ensure it melts evenly. This step is crucial for achieving a velvety, rich texture. Avoid overheating, as it can cause the cheese to separate.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with croutons or serve alongside a slice of crusty bread. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or a dash of paprika for added flair.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Soup

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality cheddar cheese make a significant difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Skip the Spices: Smoked paprika and ground mustard enhance the depth of flavor, making the soup more complex.
3. Control the Consistency: Adjust the thickness by adding more broth for a thinner soup or blending less for a chunkier texture.
4. Choose the Right Cheese: Always opt for sharp cheddar, as its bold flavor balances the creaminess of the soup.

Why This Recipe Works

This broccoli cheddar soup excels because it balances rich, cheesy indulgence with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables.

The careful layering of flavors — from sautéing aromatics to seasoning with spices — ensures every spoonful is packed with taste.

Plus, the option to blend the soup allows you to customize the texture, making it a perfect fit for everyone’s preferences.