Description
Panera broccoli cheese soup brings comfort and warmth to chilly days with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Rich, velvety textures and wholesome ingredients combine perfectly, inviting you to savor each spoonful of this classic comfort classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Vegetables:
- 3 to 4 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 to 2 cups cheddar cheese
- 2 cups whole milk or half & half or whipping cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
Seasonings and Thickeners:
- 2 tablespoons wheat flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups hot chicken broth
Instructions
- Create a flavorful base by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onion, grated carrot, chopped celery, and bell pepper until vegetables become tender and translucent.
- Introduce minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromatics to release their fragrant essence.
- Sprinkle wheat flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring continuously to create a smooth, even coating.
- Gradually pour in cold milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps and create a silky texture.
- Carefully chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Gently add broccoli to the simmering liquid, cover the pot, and allow to cook until vegetables become vibrant green and tender.
- Reduce heat and incorporate sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely and creates a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting flavors to personal preference.
- Optional: Serve in a hollowed bread bowl alongside a crisp salad and grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Remember that cooking is flexible; feel free to substitute ingredients or adjust quantities based on availability and taste.
Notes
- Always use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture, ensuring crisp, vibrant green florets that enhance the soup’s overall quality.
- Grate the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded varieties, as freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and provides a richer, more authentic taste.
- Adjust the liquid consistency by adding more broth or milk if the soup becomes too thick, creating a perfect creamy texture that’s not too heavy or runny.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half with low-fat milk and use reduced-fat cheese, maintaining the delicious flavor while cutting down on calories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg