Description
Panera’s beloved broccoli cheddar soup meets its match in this homemade version that rivals the restaurant classic. Creamy, cheesy goodness awaits you with simple ingredients and quick preparation, promising comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cheddar cheese, mild or sharp (shredded (about 2 cups))
- 1 ¾ cups (414 milliliters) chicken broth
- 2 cups (474 milliliters) half and half
Thickening Agents and Aromatics:
- 5 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatic base by melting butter in a large pot over medium heat, gently caramelizing onions until they develop a soft, golden-edged appearance, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Introduce flour to create a robust roux, stirring continuously until the mixture transforms to a rich, peanut butter-like hue, which typically takes around 4 minutes. Maintain constant movement to prevent scorching.
- Gradually incorporate chicken broth and half and half, whisking methodically to eliminate potential lumps. Elevate the heat, allowing the mixture to reach a gentle simmer.
- Introduce broccoli florets and carrots into the liquid, reducing heat and allowing the vegetables to tenderize for 15 minutes. Periodically stir to ensure uniform cooking and prevent bottom adherence.
- Integrate salt and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until completely melted and the soup achieves a silky, uniform consistency. Perform a final taste assessment, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
Notes
- Boost Flavor Depth by caramelizing onions slowly, allowing them to develop a rich golden-brown color that adds complexity to the soup’s base.
- Prevent Roux Burning by constantly stirring and watching the color change, ensuring a nutty peanut butter hue without scorching the flour mixture.
- Smooth Texture Trick involves whisking liquid gradually and steadily to eliminate potential lumps, creating a silky consistent soup base.
- Vegetarian Adaptation can be achieved by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth and using plant-based cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- Prep Time: 24 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg