Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

There’s a reason Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup has a near cult following, it’s creamy, cheesy, and just the right mix of cozy and indulgent. But let’s be real: heading to Panera every time the craving hits can get pricey, and sometimes you just want that same comfort without leaving your kitchen.

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe brings all the rich, velvety flavor you love right to your stovetop. It’s packed with tender broccoli florets, sweet carrots, sharp cheddar, and that silky smooth base you can’t stop dipping bread into. The best part? You only need one pot and about 30 minutes to pull it together.

Whether you’re serving it in a bread bowl, pairing it with a crisp salad, or ladling it into mugs for a cozy night in, this homemade version tastes just as good, maybe even better, than the original.

If you’re craving cheesy comfort, our Chicken Parmesan Soup delivers all the flavor of the Italian classic in a cozy, one-pot version.

Why This Soup Tastes Like Panera’s

If you’ve ever wondered why Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup feels so addictive, it comes down to a few simple details: the right cheese, the right texture, and the perfect balance of flavors. This homemade version hits all those same notes.

• Sharp Cheddar is key. Mild cheddar won’t cut it here. Using sharp cheddar gives the soup that bold, tangy richness Panera is known for. Bonus tip: grate it fresh from a block so it melts smoothly.
  
• The creamy base. A simple roux (butter + flour) thickens the soup before milk and broth are added, creating that velvety consistency. It’s indulgent without being too heavy.
  
• Veggie balance. Broccoli and carrots add just enough freshness and texture so the soup feels hearty, not one-dimensional.
  
• Subtle seasoning. A pinch of mustard powder or paprika deepens the flavor, but the real star stays the cheese.
  

The result? A soup that’s rich and restaurant-worthy, but made with ingredients you probably already have at home. Serve it in a bread bowl if you want the full Panera effect, or with a crusty baguette for the same comfort factor.

Feeling under the weather? This Italian Penicillin Soup is packed with garlic, herbs, and nourishing goodness to warm you up fast.

Ingredients for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

The magic of this soup is that it tastes luxurious but relies on simple, everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

Vegetables

• Broccoli florets – Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch. Chop into bite-sized pieces.
  
• Carrots – Julienne or shred them for that Panera-style texture.
  
• Onion – Yellow onion adds sweetness and depth.
  
• Garlic – Optional, but it enhances the flavor.
  

Cheesy Base

• Sharp cheddar cheese – Grated from a block (avoid pre-shredded for smoother melting).
  
• Butter – For the roux and richness.
  
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the soup.
  
• Chicken or vegetable broth – Either works, depending on your preference.
  
• Milk or cream – Whole milk keeps it light, heavy cream makes it extra indulgent.
  

Seasonings

• Salt & black pepper – Adjust to taste.
  
• Mustard powder (optional) – Adds subtle sharpness.
  
• Paprika (optional) – A touch of warmth without overpowering.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is surprisingly simple, and the payoff is huge, you’ll get all the creamy, cheesy comfort of the restaurant favorite without leaving your kitchen. Here’s how to bring it together step by step:

1. Start with the roux.
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a golden paste. This is the foundation that gives Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup its signature creamy texture.
   
2. Add the liquids.
   Slowly whisk in the broth, then pour in the milk or cream. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, about 3–4 minutes. The balance of broth and dairy is what makes this version taste just like the soup from Panera.
   
3. Cook the veggies.
   Stir in the onion, carrots, and broccoli. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the flavors meld together. The vegetables give Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup its hearty, wholesome appeal.
   
4. Melt in the cheese.
   Remove the pot from direct heat before adding the sharp cheddar. Stir until fully melted and silky smooth. (Pro tip: avoid adding cheese while the soup is boiling—this prevents it from becoming grainy.) This step transforms the base into that velvety, cheesy finish Panera is famous for.
   
5. Season and serve.
   Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and optional mustard powder or paprika. Ladle into bowls, or bread bowls if you want the authentic feel—and serve hot. Your homemade Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is ready to impress.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home is simple, but a few smart tricks can take it from good to spot-on Panera quality.

Cheese Matters

• Always grate your cheddar from a block. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.
  
• Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but you can mix in mild cheddar for a smoother finish.
  

Control the Texture

• If you prefer chunkier Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, leave the broccoli florets larger. For a smoother version, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup before adding the cheese.
  
• Adjust thickness by adding extra broth if it’s too thick, or simmering longer if it’s too thin.
  

Bread Bowl Hack

• For that true Panera experience, hollow out a round loaf of sourdough and ladle in the soup. Not only is it Instagram-worthy, but the bread soaks up the cheesy broth perfectly.
  

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  
• Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. High heat can cause the cheese to separate.
  

These small details are what make your Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup taste like the real deal, or maybe even better.

Substitutions & Variations for Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

One of the best things about Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is how versatile it can be. Whether you want to make it lighter, vegetarian, or add your own twist, here are some easy swaps:

Dietary Swaps

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor stays rich and satisfying without any meat.
  
• Gluten-Free: Replace the flour in the roux with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. Just mix it into the broth to thicken.
  
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, or even stir in plain Greek yogurt at the end for creaminess with extra protein.
  

Flavor Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Stir in a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a deeper, restaurant-style flavor.
  
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
  
• Smoky Twist: Swap a portion of cheddar with smoked cheddar for a bold variation on Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
  
• More Veggies: Toss in cauliflower, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutrition without overpowering the flavor.
  

These tweaks let you customize the soup to your taste or dietary needs while keeping all the creamy comfort that makes it so popular.

FAQs about Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Conclusion

There’s a reason Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup has become a favorite for so many, it’s creamy, cheesy, and endlessly comforting. The best part is, you don’t need to head to Panera every time the craving hits. With a few simple ingredients and one pot, you can recreate that same rich flavor at home in under an hour.

This recipe is flexible, family-friendly, and easy enough for weeknights while still being impressive enough for guests. Whether you serve it in a bread bowl, pair it with a salad, or enjoy it with a warm baguette, it’s pure comfort in every spoonful.

Next time you want something cozy, skip the takeout and whip up your own Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it just might become your new go-to dinner.

Love cozy copycat recipes like this? Follow us on Pinterest for more comforting soups and easy weeknight dinners!

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh broccoli and carrots in a velvety cheddar base. Make this Panera favorite at home in under an hour with simple ingredients and one pot.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 bowls

Course: Dinner, Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 360

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Vegetables

• 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen, chopped small
• 1 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
• 1 small yellow onion, diced

Soup Base

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for roux
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups milk or heavy cream whole milk for lighter version, cream for richness

Cheese & Seasoning

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated grate fresh from a block
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder optional, adds depth
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional, for warmth

Equipment

• Large pot
• Whisk
• Ladle

Method

 

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a golden roux.
2. Slowly whisk in the broth, then add the milk or cream. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the onion, carrots, and broccoli. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15–20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
4. Remove the pot from direct heat. Stir in the sharp cheddar gradually until melted and smooth. Avoid adding cheese while boiling to prevent graininess.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and paprika to taste. Serve hot in bowls or bread bowls for the full Panera experience.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 16gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 950mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gCalcium: 350mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded. If you prefer a smoother soup, blend part of the broccoli before adding cheese. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid separating the cheese.

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