Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Panera-Style Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a recipe that rivals the famous Panera version. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this soup is rich, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli and carrots. It’s a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with a warm crusty baguette, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a satisfying meal, this broccoli cheddar soup is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 medium chopped onion
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups half-and-half cream
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1/2 lb broccoli (about 3 cups), chopped into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup carrot, julienned (or matchstick carrots from the produce section)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but enhances flavor)
- 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the half-and-half and chicken stock until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add the broccoli and carrots to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). For a smoother texture, blend 1 cup of the soup and stir it back in.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Avoid high heat to prevent the soup from becoming grainy.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy broccoli cheddar soup that’s perfect for any season!
