Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup Inspired by Panera
This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is inspired by the popular Panera version, featuring fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped
- 1 cup yellow onion finely diced
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- ½ cup celery diced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Crusty artisan bread for serving
Instructions
- Melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, celery, and carrots; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the broccoli and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes, stirring well.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes until broccoli is tender.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in half-and-half, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Ladle soup into bowls and serve immediately.
- Garnish with extra cheddar and broccoli florets if desired.
Notes
Serve with crusty artisan bread for a complete meal.