Name: Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1/4 cup flour; 2 cups half-and-half cream; 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth; 1/2 lb broccoli, about 3 cups, chopped into bite-size pieces; 1 cup carrot, julienned (matchstick style); 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups); Salt and pepper, to taste

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that creamy, comforting feeling only a warm bowl of soup can bring, then you are in for a treat with Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe. This beloved recipe captures the perfect balance of rich cheddar cheese, tender broccoli, and gentle hints of carrot and nutmeg, all enveloped in a luxuriously velvety broth. It’s a classic that feels like a big cozy hug, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make right at home, turning an ordinary day into something special with every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two piles of vegetables side by side on a white marbled surface. On the left, there are many small bright green broccoli florets with a rough texture and round shapes. On the right, there is a heap of thin, long, orange carrot sticks with a smooth texture. The colors are fresh and vibrant, and there is no plate or bowl visible, just the vegetables on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To recreate Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe, you’ll rely on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From the creamy half-and-half to the vivid bursts of fresh broccoli and carrots, these components come together to delight your taste buds and create that signature smooth, flavorful soup.

Butter (1/4 cup): The base for sautéing your onions, butter builds an indulgent richness that sets the tone for the soup.
Chopped onion (1/2 medium): Adds a mild sweetness and depth when softened in butter.
Flour (1/4 cup): Acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup its wonderfully creamy texture.
Half-and-half cream (2 cups): Provides the lusciousness that makes this soup feel ultra indulgent without being heavy.
Low-sodium chicken stock or broth (2 cups): Balances the richness and adds savory notes while keeping the flavors bright.
Broccoli (1/2 lb or about 3 cups, chopped): The star vegetable, delivering vibrant color and tender bites.
Carrots (1 cup, julienned): Bring subtle sweetness and a pleasing texture contrast.
Nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon, optional): A secret little spice that elevates the overall flavor profile with warmth.
Grated sharp cheddar cheese (8 ounces or 2 cups): The heart and soul of the soup; choose a quality sharp cheddar for that signature tang and creaminess.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other ingredients.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Onions and Create the Base

Start by melting your butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and fragrant, releasing its natural sweetness to build that comforting soup foundation. Then sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it cooks out the raw flour taste and prepares your soup for thickening.

Step 2: Whisk in Liquids and Bring to Simmer

Next, whisk in the half-and-half cream and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower your heat to medium so the soup can gently simmer. This careful heating ensures the cream and stock meld together perfectly, developing the creamy texture that’s vital for Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Cook Until Tender

Stir in the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Let everything simmer over medium-low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. These colorful veggies don’t just taste amazing—they offer lovely texture and nutrition that make this soup satisfying and wholesome.

Step 4: Season, Blend, and Add Cheese

Season the soup to your taste with salt and pepper. For a smoother consistency, blend approximately one cup of the soup and stir it back in—this thoughtful step is my secret trick for that classic velvety texture reminiscent of Panera’s own bowl. Then gently add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring slowly to prevent graininess. Don’t forget to stir in that pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it; it gives the soup a warm, subtle depth that keeps you coming back for more.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once your soup is perfectly melted, rich, and flavorful, it’s ready to serve. Ladle into bowls and grab some crusty bread for dipping—the cozy experience you’ve just made from scratch is unbeatable. This final step is a celebration of patience and love, wrapped in one delicious dish.

How to Serve Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

The image shows a bowl of creamy broccoli soup with a smooth, pale green texture filled with small broccoli pieces. On top of the soup in the middle are bright yellow shredded cheddar cheese and two small, fresh green broccoli florets. The soup is served in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your Broccoli Cheddar Soup can take your bowl from wonderful to wow. Try sprinkling extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for that melty, ooey-gooey finish or a handful of crispy bacon bits if you love a savory crunch. A sprinkle of finely chopped chives or parsley also adds a fresh pop of color and a mild herby brightness that complements the creamy cheddar beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup truly shines when paired with crusty artisan breads or warm garlic breadsticks that soak up every last drop of that cheesy broth. A fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette creates a lovely balance with the richness of the soup, while a grilled cheese sandwich amping up the comfort level makes for a nostalgic meal that feels just right on chilly days.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup inside a hollowed-out round bread bowl rather than a traditional bowl—this edible container makes the experience extra special and cozy. You can also spoon the soup over rice or use it as a sauce to drizzle on roasted vegetables or even baked potatoes for a comforting yet inventive dinner option that still carries all the magic of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3 days. When you reheat, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the texture creamy and smooth—this method keeps the soup tasting just as delightful as the first time.

Freezing

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe can be frozen, but it’s best to do so before adding the cheese to prevent graininess. Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and add fresh shredded cheddar during reheating to maintain that rich, cheesy flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your soup slowly over low heat while stirring continuously. This helps to evenly distribute the heat and keep the cheese from separating. You can also add a splash of half-and-half or milk if the soup feels too thick. Avoid boiling after adding cheese to keep your soup silky and smooth, just like the original Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep that savory depth while making it vegetarian-friendly. The creamy cheddar and vegetables will still shine through beautifully.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for this soup because it adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the creaminess. You can experiment with aged or extra sharp cheddar depending on how pronounced you want the cheese flavor to be.

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well and can be a convenient option. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly since frozen vegetables can cook faster and release more water, which may affect soup thickness.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its signature creaminess and flavor, but you can try substituting with coconut milk or cashew cream and using a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the taste and texture will differ from the classic Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe.

Why does my soup sometimes turn grainy when adding cheese?

Graininess happens when cheese is added over too high heat or cooked for too long. To avoid this, keep the heat low and add the cheese gradually while stirring constantly to achieve that perfect smooth finish.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that once you try making Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe at home, it will become a fast favorite in your kitchen too. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, surprisingly simple but so rewarding to prepare. Whether you’re craving comfort on a cold day or need an impressive dish for guests, this soup delivers every single time. So grab your ingredients, get cozy by the stove, and dive into a bowl of cheesy, veggie-packed goodness that tastes just like the one from your favorite café.

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need