Description

A creamy, rich, and cheesy broccoli soup inspired by Panera’s signature favorite. Packed with fresh broccoli, carrots, and sharp cheddar in a velvety cream base, this cozy homemade version delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just one pot.

Ingredients

2 tbsp melted butter

1 medium onion, chopped

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

4 cups half-and-half (or 2 cups heavy cream + 2 cups milk)

4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)

1 lb fresh broccoli (or two 10 oz bags frozen broccoli)

2 cups carrots, julienned

1/3 tsp nutmeg

16 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, melt 1/2 cup butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in half-and-half and chicken stock until smooth. Return the sautéed onions to the pot.
Simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
Add chopped broccoli, carrots, and nutmeg. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes, until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
Reduce heat to low and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Do not boil after adding cheese.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm with bread or salad.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest texture—pre-shredded cheese may clump.

For a thicker soup, reduce chicken stock slightly or blend part of the soup before adding cheese.

Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.

Add a touch of Dijon mustard or hot sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat slowly over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 380
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 90mg