When the weather turns chilly, few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of cheddar broccoli soup. There’s something magical about the rich, creamy texture paired with the earthy flavor of broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. If you’ve ever found yourself craving Panera Bread’s famous cheddar broccoli soup, you’re not alone. This beloved dish has become a staple for many soup lovers across the nation. But did you know that you can recreate this hearty dish in the comfort of your own kitchen? In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to make a luscious cheddar broccoli soup that rivals Panera’s famous recipe.
Ingredients You Will Need
To capture the essence of Panera’s cheddar broccoli soup, start by gathering the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (approximately 1-2 large heads of broccoli)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half for creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little kick)
These ingredients will provide you with the rich flavors and creamy texture that you love about Panera’s soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheddar Broccoli Soup
Now that you’ve assembled your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the preparation process.
Step 1: Prepare Your Broccoli
Start by rinsing your broccoli under cold water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Cut the broccoli into small florets, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking. You can also peel and chop the tough stems and add them into the soup—don’t waste any part of this nutritious vegetable!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Roux
Once your onions and garlic are sautéed, it’s time to create a roux, which will thicken your soup. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring continuously. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook without browning, which helps to eliminate that raw flour taste.
Step 4: Add the Liquids
Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once fully incorporated, pour in the whole milk (or half and half if you prefer a creamier soup). Bring the mixture to a simmer, and allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the bottom from scorching.
Step 5: Add the Broccoli
Next, add your prepared broccoli florets to the pot. Allow them to simmer in the soup for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. You want to be sure the broccoli has cooked through but still retains a bit of its vibrant color.
Step 6: Blend the Soup (Optional)
For a smoother texture similar to that found in Panera’s recipe, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
Step 7: Add the Cheese
Once the broccoli is tender and the soup has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to add the star of the dish—sharp cheddar cheese. Gradually stir in the shredded cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Finally, season your soup with salt, black pepper, and an optional dash of paprika for added flavor. Stir thoroughly to combine everything. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or croutons for added texture.
Tips for the Perfect Cheddar Broccoli Soup
Even with the best ingredients, there can be subtle tweaks to ensure your soup tastes just like Panera’s. Here are some helpful tips:
Use Quality Cheese
The type of cheddar cheese you use can dramatically affect the flavor of your soup. For that sharp, authentic taste, opt for a high-quality aged cheddar cheese. It’s worth the investment!
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli
To maintain the bright green color and nutritional value, avoid overcooking the broccoli. You want it tender but still vibrant.
Adjust Consistency to Your Liking
Everyone has their preference when it comes to the consistency of soup. If you find your soup too thick, add more milk or broth; if it’s too thin, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the soup to thicken it.
Experiment with Toppings
While croutons are a classic topping, feel free to get creative! Consider topping your soup with crispy bacon, diced green onions, or additional shredded cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Make It Ahead of Time
Cheddar broccoli soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. In fact, the flavors may meld and improve overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!
Serving Suggestions
While a bowl of cheddar broccoli soup is delightful on its own, pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your meal. Here are a few suggestions:
Fresh Bread
A warm, crusty baguette or a soft sourdough loaf can be the perfect accompaniment. Digging into your soup with a slice of fresh bread enhances the dining experience.
Salads
A crisp garden salad or Caesar salad can make your meal feel more complete. The freshness of the salad highlights the rich flavors of the soup.
Enjoy Your Homemade Cheddar Broccoli Soup!
Now that you have all the tools and instructions to create a delightful cheddar broccoli soup like Panera Bread, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making a beloved dish from scratch. Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’ve mastered a recipe that will warm your heart and soul on a chilly day.
Remember, cooking is all about love and experimentation, so don’t hesitate to make it your own! Whether you choose to add a dash of your favorite spice or a different type of cheese, the important part is to savor the process and enjoy the magic of homemade soup. Enjoy your cooking journey!
What ingredients do I need to make Panera-style cheddar broccoli soup?
To replicate the delicious cheddar broccoli soup from Panera Bread, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients. Key items include fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, half-and-half, and flour for thickening. Additionally, you may want to use butter for sautéing and seasonings like salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg to enhance the flavor.
Make sure to select high-quality sharp cheddar cheese, as its robust flavor is essential to achieving the signature taste of the soup. Fresh broccoli is important for texture and nutrition, while the half-and-half will provide a creamy consistency. You can also customize the recipe by including add-ins like carrots or other vegetables if desired.
How do I prepare the broccoli for the soup?
Preparing the broccoli is a straightforward process. Start by washing the broccoli thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Next, trim off the ends of the stems and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Make sure to chop them evenly so they cook properly and fit well in the soup.
For added tenderness, you can blanch the broccoli before adding it to the soup. Simply bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the chopped florets, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green. After blanching, quickly transfer the broccoli to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This step ensures your broccoli maintains its vibrant color and a little crunchiness in the final dish.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli instead of fresh in your cheddar broccoli soup. Frozen broccoli is often picked and blanched at the peak of freshness, which means that it can save you time and effort while still delivering great taste and nutrition. Just be sure to thaw the broccoli beforehand and drain any excess moisture to prevent the soup from becoming watery.
Keep in mind that the texture of frozen broccoli will be softer compared to fresh broccoli. If you prefer a bite to your broccoli, you may want to add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it doesn’t become too mushy. Overall, frozen broccoli is a convenient and viable option for making this comforting soup.
How long does it take to make cheddar broccoli soup?
Making cheddar broccoli soup is relatively quick and easy, typically taking about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. You will spend the first part of this time prepping your ingredients, such as chopping the broccoli and onion, and gathering your spices. The cooking process itself is quite efficient, with simmering time only requiring about 20 minutes.
Consider that if you choose to include steps like roasting the broccoli or allowing the soup to simmer for longer to deepen the flavors, it may take additional time. However, in general, this comforting dish can practically become a weeknight staple, offering a delicious homemade alternative to takeout.
Can I make cheddar broccoli soup ahead of time?
Yes, cheddar broccoli soup can definitely be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or hosting. To do this, follow your recipe as usual, allowing the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much upon refrigeration, you may want to add a little extra broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Freshly grated cheese can also be added when reheating for an extra creamy finish.
What can I serve with cheddar broccoli soup?
Cheddar broccoli soup is a perfect stand-alone dish, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Classic options include crusty bread, such as sourdough or baguette, which is great for dipping. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad, allowing for a healthy balance to your meal.
For a heartier option, consider serving the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple panini. These tasty additions complement the creamy soup beautifully. Another idea is to offer it as a starter alongside main dishes like roasted chicken or pasta, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Can I make cheddar broccoli soup vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt cheddar broccoli soup to be vegan or dairy-free without compromising on flavor. Instead of using regular butter and cheese, you can substitute with plant-based butter and a vegan cheese alternative. Coconut milk, cashew cream, or almond milk can be used in place of half-and-half for a rich and creamy base that still holds the essence of the dish.
To enhance the flavor in a vegan version, consider adding nutritional yeast, which contributes a cheesy flavor while also boosting nutritional value. Make sure to check the labels on all your ingredients to ensure they are dairy-free, and feel free to incorporate additional vegetables and spices to elevate your soup according to your dietary preferences.