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Panera Broccoli And Cheese Soup - Cozy, Creamy Comfort At Home

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced or grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer soup)
  • 4 cups small broccoli florets (about 1 large head), finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 1/2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, packed
  • Optional: 1/2 cup grated Parmesan for extra depth
  • Optional garnish: extra shredded cheddar, chopped chives, or a pinch of red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrots with a pinch of salt. Cook 5–6 minutes, stirring, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Make the roux: Sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. The mixture should look like a thick paste.
  3. Add liquids gradually: Slowly whisk in the broth, a little at a time, to prevent lumps. Once smooth, whisk in the milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Simmer with broccoli: Stir in broccoli, Dijon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until broccoli is very tender and the soup thickens.
  5. Adjust texture: For a chunkier soup, leave as is. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend, leaving some pieces intact. Blend more for a creamier finish.
  6. Add the cheese off heat: Turn off the heat. Stir in cheddar (and Parmesan, if using) by the handful, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls. Garnish with extra cheese, chives, or red pepper flakes. Pair with warm bread or a bread bowl.