Panera Bread's Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a beloved comfort food, creamy, cheesy, and bursting with the flavor of fresh broccoli. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, numerous attempts have been made to recreate this delicious soup at home. This recipe aims to get you as close as possible to that iconic Panera taste. We'll explore the key components and techniques that make this soup so special.
What Makes Panera's Broccoli Cheddar Soup So Special?
Panera's soup isn't just broccoli and cheese; it's a symphony of flavors and textures. The secret lies in a combination of factors:
- High-Quality Ingredients: They use fresh, high-quality broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese, resulting in a richer, more flavorful soup.
- Creamy Texture: The creaminess isn't just from cream; it's a carefully balanced combination of cream, milk, and perhaps even a touch of butter or cheese sauce for extra richness.
- Sharp Cheddar Flavor: The sharpness of the cheddar is key. A mild cheddar simply won't cut it. Look for a sharp or extra-sharp cheddar for the best results.
- Brothy Base: A well-seasoned broth forms the foundation, providing depth and complexity that elevates the soup beyond a simple cheese sauce.
The Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
This recipe aims to capture the essence of Panera's soup. Feel free to adjust seasonings to your preference.
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly tender-crisp.
- Simmer in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Leaving some texture is perfectly acceptable and mimics Panera's version.
- Add Dairy and Seasonings: Stir in the milk and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, white pepper, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a crusty bread roll for dipping (a Panera staple!).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese is essential for that authentic Panera flavor. Avoid using mild cheddar.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it to the pot with the broth and cook until completely thawed and tender. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) or by adding a little more shredded cheese.
What can I add to this soup to make it my own?
Feel free to experiment! Consider adding roasted red peppers, bacon bits, or a dash of hot sauce for some extra flavor.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying approximation of Panera's Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Enjoy recreating this comfort food classic in your own kitchen! Remember, the beauty of cooking is in the experimentation, so don't hesitate to tweak it to your liking.
