If you're a fan of Panera Bread's iconic broccoli cheddar soup, you know how hard it can be to resist that creamy, cheesy bowl of comfort. Whether it's a chilly winter evening or a lazy weekend afternoon, this soup has a way of making everything better. But what if you could enjoy this favorite dish without leaving your home? Thanks to a simple recipe found on allrecipes.com, you can now recreate the beloved Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup right in your own kitchen.
This homemade version not only captures the rich, velvety texture of the original but also allows for customization based on your preferences. From the perfect balance of seasonings to the use of fresh ingredients, this recipe is a testament to the joy of cooking. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this comforting soup at home, along with some fascinating history and fun facts about this popular dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots (about 2 medium-sized carrots)
- 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients are easy to find and work together to create the signature creamy texture of Panera’s soup. For those looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable stock can be used instead of chicken broth, and Velveeta cheese can be substituted for a dairy-free alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this soup is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here’s how to do it:
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Next, add the chopped carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then, add the broccoli florets and cook for another 3 minutes. This step ensures that the vegetables are tender and ready to blend into the soup.
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt an additional 1/4 cup of butter. Whisk in the 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of half-and-half to the flour mixture and bring to a simmer. Allow the mixture to thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
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Combine Everything: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt. Add the cheese sauce to the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dry mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Blend and Serve: Using an immersion blender or a standard blender, carefully blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese and crusty bread, if desired.
Tips for Success
To ensure your soup turns out perfectly, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use Pre-Shredded Carrots: Save time by using pre-shredded carrots instead of grating them yourself.
- Opt for Frozen Broccoli Florets: These are a convenient alternative to fresh broccoli and work just as well.
- Use a Food Processor: Chop all your veggies quickly with a food processor to streamline the process.
- Have All Ingredients Ready: Having everything measured and prepared ahead of time makes the cooking process smoother.
- Avoid Boiling After Adding Cheese: When reheating the soup, make sure not to boil it, as this can cause the cheese to curdle and the broccoli to lose its vibrant color.
History and Fun Facts
Broccoli cheddar soup has deep roots in American cuisine, but its origins can be traced back to European traditions. The concept of combining cheese with vegetables in a soup has been around for centuries, with variations appearing in different cultures across the globe.
Cheddar cheese, which hails from the English village of Cheddar in Somerset, has been produced since the 12th century. Its sharp and distinct flavor adds a unique depth to this soup. As for Panera Bread, the chain started in 1987 in St. Louis, Missouri, under the name St. Louis Bread Company. It was later renamed to Panera Bread, and its popularity grew rapidly due to its delicious breads, pastries, and soups.
Interestingly, Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup is known for its ability to stay warm all day in a thermalizer that keeps the soup at 165°F. This feature makes it a great option for events or gatherings where the soup needs to remain hot for extended periods.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a long-time fan of Panera Bread or simply looking for a comforting meal, this copycat recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the original without leaving your home. With its rich, creamy texture and satisfying taste, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor a warm, comforting bowl of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup today.
