Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot like a warm bowl of creamy broccoli cheese soup. And if you’ve ever visited Panera Bread, you’ve probably fallen in love with their iconic broccoli cheddar soup served in a cozy bread bowl. The good news? You don’t need to leave the comfort of your home to enjoy it! With this copycat Panera broccoli cheese soup recipe, you can recreate the same rich, velvety flavors right in your own kitchen.

This soup is creamy, cheesy, full of tender broccoli florets, and perfectly seasoned to taste just like the Panera favorite. Even better, you can make it in under an hour with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether you’re craving a cozy lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a crowd-pleasing starter, this recipe will become your go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Recipe

Budget-Friendly: Making this at home costs much less than frequenting Panera.
Quick & Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Customizable: You can adjust the thickness, add extra cheese, or even sneak in more veggies for a nutrient boost.
Family Favorite: Both kids and adults love the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a delicious pot of broccoli cheese soup:

Butter (unsalted): For sautéing and creating a rich roux.
Onion (finely chopped): Adds depth and a subtle sweetness.
Garlic (minced): Enhances the flavor with a savory punch.
All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
Vegetable broth (or chicken broth): Provides the soup base.
Milk and heavy cream: For creaminess and silky texture.
Fresh broccoli florets: The star of the dish! Chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Carrots (shredded): Adds sweetness, color, and texture.
Cheddar cheese (sharp, freshly grated): For bold, cheesy flavor.
Salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg: Seasonings that balance and enhance the flavor.

Optional: Crusty bread or bread bowls for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own copycat Panera broccoli cheese soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the broccoli into small florets. Shred the carrots using a box grater. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped ahead makes the cooking process smooth.

Step 2: Make the Base (Roux)

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Gradually whisk in the broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the milk and cream, stirring continuously until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Stir in the broccoli florets and shredded carrots. Lower the heat, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the veggies are cooked, gradually stir in the freshly grated cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls or bread bowls, garnish with extra shredded cheese, and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Copycat Panera Soup

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your cheese for a creamier result.
Control the Thickness: For a thicker soup, use a bit less broth. For a lighter consistency, add a splash more milk.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Simmer just until tender to maintain some texture and vibrant green color.
Experiment with Cheese Blends: While sharp cheddar is classic, mixing in a little Gruyère or Colby Jack can create unique flavors.
Bread Bowl Tip: Hollow out a round loaf of bread, bake it at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to firm up the crust, and fill it with soup for the full Panera experience.

What to Serve with Broccoli Cheese Soup

Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Salads: A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
Sandwiches: Pair with a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich for a heartier meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Adds texture and a wholesome side option.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While you can freeze it, the dairy may separate slightly. If freezing, reheat slowly while whisking to bring it back together.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

Why This Soup is So Popular

Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup has achieved cult status because it’s the perfect combination of comforting, indulgent, and satisfying. The velvety cheese pairs beautifully with tender broccoli, while the carrots add a touch of sweetness. When served in a bread bowl, it becomes not just a meal, but an experience.

By making this copycat version, you bring all those comforting flavors home, while also having the freedom to tweak the recipe to your personal preferences. Want more cheese? Go for it. Prefer extra broccoli? Add it in. The beauty of homemade is in the customization.

Healthier Swaps and Variations

Lower Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Extra Veggies: Add cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.

Final Thoughts

This copycat Panera broccoli cheese soup recipe proves that you don’t need to leave home to enjoy one of your favorite restaurant dishes. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of cheesy goodness, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Serve it in a bread bowl to truly recreate the Panera vibe, or pair it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a satisfying meal.

Once you make this at home, you might just find yourself craving it even more often—good thing it’s so quick and easy to whip up!

So the next time you want something cozy and delicious, skip the takeout line and bring Panera’s magic straight to your table with this recipe.

Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe