Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

Creamy broccoli cheddar soup
4.50 from 15 votes

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is another classic for cold winter days. This recipe is a Copycat Panera Broccoli cheddar soup. If you are looking for a comforting dish that will warm you up, this soup is for you.

creamy and rich homemade broccoli and cheddar soup

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

We all love soups, but this soup is a unique one. Broccoli Cheddar Soup, a beloved American classic, is a creamy and comforting dish often associated with the United States. While its exact origin is not well-documented, it gained popularity in the latter half of the 20th century. One of the most iconic places to enjoy this soup is Panera Bread, a well-known American bakery-cafe chain. Panera has made Broccoli Cheddar Soup a staple on their menu, and it’s frequently featured as part of their soup-and-sandwich combos. This rich and cheesy soup is also commonly found in other American chain restaurants, diners, and local cafes, especially during the colder months. While variations of broccoli and cheese soups can be found in other countries, the specific combination of broccoli and cheddar cheese in a creamy soup is a hallmark of American culinary traditions, and Broccoli Cheddar Soup continues to be a comforting and popular choice for many.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Origin

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a popular American comfort food that rose to prominence in the late 20th century, largely thanks to chain restaurants like Panera Bread. While its exact origin is unclear, the combination of broccoli, a vegetable brought to the U.S. by Italian immigrants in the early 20th century, and cheddar cheese, a longstanding American staple, likely came from a desire for a rich, hearty, and nutritious dish. The soup’s creamy, flavorful profile made it a favorite in homes and restaurants alike, offering warmth and indulgence in a single bowl.

What is Broccoli Cheddar Soup Made Of?

a pot of broccoli cheddar soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup is typically made with the following ingredients:

  • Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the primary vegetable used, usually chopped into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a rich and savory flavor and contributes to the soup’s creaminess when melted.
  • Stock or Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is used as the base of the soup, providing liquid and flavor.
  • Onions and Garlic: Sautéed onions and garlic are often used to add depth and flavor to the soup.
  • Butter: Butter is used to sauté the onions and garlic and adds to the richness of the soup.
  • Seasonings: Various seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika and sometimes nutmeg may be added to enhance the taste.
  • Milk or Cream (optional): Some recipes may include milk or cream to make the soup even creamier.

The typical preparation involves sautéing the onions and garlic in butter, then adding the broccoli and broth. The mixture is simmered until the broccoli is tender. The soup is usually pureed or partially pureed to create a creamy texture, and then the cheddar cheese is added and stirred until it’s fully melted, resulting in a cheesy and smooth soup. It’s often garnished with additional shredded cheddar cheese or croutons when served.

What Pairs Well with Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, and the choices depend on your preferences. Here are some popular options to enjoy alongside a bowl of Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

  • Bread: Crusty bread, such as baguette slices, garlic bread, or a warm, fresh dinner roll, is a classic choice for dipping into the soup.
  • Crackers: Serve your soup with a side of your favorite crackers for added crunch. Saltine crackers or whole-grain crackers work well.
  • Salad: A simple side salad, such as a garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing, can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
  • Sandwich: A half sandwich, like a grilled cheese sandwich or a turkey and avocado sandwich, complements the soup, creating a more substantial meal.
  • Vegetables: Steamed or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or carrots, make a healthy and colorful side.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw, with its contrasting textures and flavors, can be a delightful side option.
  • Potato Chips: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, potato chips can add a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup.
  • Pickles: A few dill or bread-and-butter pickles on the side can provide a tangy and zesty element.
  • Crispy Bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon bits can be sprinkled on top of the soup or served on the side for those who enjoy a smoky, savory addition.

How to Make Craemy Broccoli Cheddar Soup

a spoon of broccoli cheddar soup

Here are some tips and trips to make the best broccoli cheddar soup:

  1. Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese make a big difference. Shred the cheese yourself for better melting.
  2. Flavorful base: Sauté onions, garlic, and celery in butter for depth.
  3. Perfect roux: Cook butter and flour until golden, then slowly whisk in milk or cream for a smooth texture.
  4. Broth mix: Use chicken or vegetable broth with cream for balance.
  5. Add cheese gradually: Stir in small batches on low heat to avoid curdling.
  6. Blend for texture: Blend part of the soup for creaminess while keeping some broccoli chunks.
  7. Season smart: Add salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like cayenne or mustard powder.
  8. Finish with cream: Stir in a little cream at the end for extra richness.
  9. Top it off: Garnish with croutons, bacon, or extra cheese.

How to Store Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

  1. Cool Completely: Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing to avoid condensation, which can affect texture.
  2. Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  3. Freeze: Place in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note that cream-based soups can sometimes change texture when frozen, but stirring well when reheating can help.
  4. Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. You can add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much.

Other Comforting Soup Recipes You Might Like

broccoli cheddar soup

Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

This creamy broccoli cheddar soup is another classic for cold winter days. This recipe is a Copycat Panera Broccoli cheddar soup. If you are looking for a comfortingdish that will warm you up, this soup is for you.
4.50 from 15 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
DIFFICULTY Easy
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 271 kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 1 pound (450 g) Broccoli cut into chunks
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) Butter
  • 1 Onion chopped
  • 2-3 Garlic cloves crushed
  • 4 tablespoons (30 g) Flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) Chicken/vegetable stock
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 Carrot grated, large
  • 2 cups (480 ml) Half&half or whole milk
  • 8 oz (225 g) Cheddar cheese grated

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot melt the butter, add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  • Add the flour and cook, while whisking, for about 1-2 minutes, until turns golden. Pour in the stock. Then add the chopped broccoli, grated carrot, salt, pepper and paprika.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Add the cream, cheddar cheese and stir. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Serve!

Video

YouTube video

Nutrition

Calories: 271kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 11gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 944mgPotassium: 340mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 2437IUVitamin C: 53mgCalcium: 322mgIron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically generated and thus we can not guarantee it is 100% accurate.
Keyword easy

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the ingredients for Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup typically includes fresh broccoli, shredded carrots, onions, butter, flour (for thickening), chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.

Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup completely vegetarian without compromising the taste.

How can I prevent the cheese from curdling?

To prevent curdling, lower the heat before adding cheese and stir it in gradually. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cheese, as high heat can cause the cheese to separate.

Can I freeze Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup, but be aware that cream-based soups may change texture slightly. To restore creaminess, reheat slowly and stir well, adding a little broth or milk if needed.

How do I thicken Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

To thicken the soup, make a roux by cooking equal parts butter and flour before adding the liquid. Alternatively, blend part of the soup or add more cheese for extra creaminess.

4 Comments

  1. Hi, I made this today. It was good. I only had mozzarella cheese, Parmesab and used 1/4 c skim milk w/half and half. I added some chicken bouillon. Idk it’s just okay.

    November 13, 2023
    1. Looks like you didn’t follow the recipe 🤣

      June 1, 2024
  2. Petro Kotzé says:

    I added some barbeque flavored chicken pieces, and it was delicious! This is now my new favorite soup recipe.

    April 8, 2024
    1. The Cooking Foodie says:

      Glad you liked it.

      April 10, 2024
4.50 from 15 votes (15 ratings without comment)

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