By This Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup captures the essence of meals|chicken while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup diced onions (yellow or white)
1 cup shredded carrots (I used matchsticks that I cut into half inch pieces)
2 ½-3 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup milk (I use skim/fat free)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 ½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (or more as desired)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How To Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
In a large pot over medium high heat, melt butter. Add in onions, carrots and broccoli. Cook to soften about 5 minutes (may be more or less depending on the size vegetables you cut).
Slowly add in broth, milk, and cream. Sprinkle with flour and add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Continue stirring and heating over medium heat until thickened. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
Once thick, add cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Serve soup and enjoy!
PREPARATION STEPS
How To Make Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
In a large pot over medium high heat, melt butter
Add in onions, carrots and broccoli
Cook to soften about 5 minutes (may be more or less depending on the size vegetables you cut).
Slowly add in broth, milk, and cream
Sprinkle with flour and add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes
Continue stirring and heating over medium heat until thickened
This will take about 10-15 minutes.
Once thick, add cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Serve soup and enjoy!
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~350 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
