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Incredible Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)

Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)

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Enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and comforting bowl of homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup that perfectly mimics the beloved Panera copycat recipe. It’s ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion (about 1 small onion)
  • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets (from about 1 small head of broccoli)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add broccoli florets and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
  4. While the soup simmers, prepare a roux. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly golden.
  5. Gradually whisk the milk into the roux until smooth. Cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  6. Once the broccoli is tender, carefully transfer the soup mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
  7. Return the pureed soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is creamy.
  8. Slowly whisk the thickened milk mixture into the soup until well combined and heated through. Do not boil.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup!

Notes

  • For a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
  • If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.

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