Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe In Orange Cheddar Bread Bowls

I’ve spent years perfecting creamy, comforting soups, and I can confidently say this homemade version nails the classic Panera flavor. Imagine the rich aroma of simmering cheddar and tender broccoli filling your kitchen, promising a satisfying meal. This easy copycat panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe In Orange Cheddar Bread Bowls is perfect for busy parents wanting a hearty, healthy dinner, or anyone craving authentic flavor without the restaurant price. It’s a family-friendly favorite at my house, especially on chilly weeknights when warmth is most welcome.

Ingredient Profile & Healthy Substitutes for Your Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Crafting a truly flavorful Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, plus flexible options for various dietary needs.

• Broccoli Florets: 4 cups (about 450g), fresh or frozen, for vibrant color and essential nutrients.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (about 225g), freshly grated from a block for superior melt and authentic taste.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 4 cups (960ml), low-sodium is preferred for controlled seasoning.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml), for rich, creamy body. (For a lighter option, use half-and-half).
• Milk: 2 cups (480ml), whole or 2%, providing a smooth, balanced base. (I often use whole milk for a richer soup, but 2% works beautifully too).
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium (about 150g), finely chopped, for aromatic depth.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for savory notes.
• Unsalted Butter: 4 tbsp (56g), divided, to build the roux and sauté aromatics.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp (18g), to thicken the soup.
• Nutmeg: ½ tsp, freshly grated for warm, subtle spice.
• White Pepper: ¼ tsp, for a clean peppery finish.
• Salt: To taste, for seasoning.

For the Orange Cheddar Bread Bowls:

• Large Sourdough or Artisan Rolls: 4-6, for serving the panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: 1-2 tbsp, to toast the bowls.
• Extra Shredded Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup, for melting inside the bowls.

Upgraded versions: Consider organic broccoli and grass-fed butter for enhanced flavor. Low-sodium broth and whole milk can further elevate this family-friendly recipe.

Smart substitutions for trending diets: For dairy-free, use plant-based milk/cream and nutritional yeast or vegan cheddar. A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend makes this soup gluten-free. Half-and-half or evaporated milk lightens the soup if preferred.

Ingredient notes: Fresh broccoli offers the best texture. Always grate a sharp cheddar block yourself for superior melting; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents. Store leftover broth in the refrigerator or freezer for future meal prep recipes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Method for Perfect Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creating this beloved panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe In Orange Cheddar Bread Bowls at home is straightforward. Follow these steps for a consistently creamy and flavorful result.

1. Prep the Orange Cheddar Bread Bowls (10 min): Carefully hollow out your large sourdough or artisan rolls, leaving a ½-inch thick wall. Brush the inside with 1-2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter. Bake on a sheet pan at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until they look lightly golden. During the final 2 minutes, sprinkle about ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese inside each bowl to melt and create a cheesy lining.
2. Sauté Aromatics (5-7 min): In a large 5-quart pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. Stir in the minced garlic for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux (1 min): Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour until a thick paste forms and cooks for 1 minute. The mixture should smell slightly nutty, ensuring no raw flour taste remains.
4. Add Liquids (10-15 min): Gradually whisk in 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, then 2 cups milk (whole or 2%), ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Cook Broccoli (10-12 min): Add 4 cups small broccoli florets to the simmering base. Continue cooking until the broccoli is tender-crisp, about 10-12 minutes, maintaining its vibrant green color.
6. Finish with Dairy and Cheese (3-5 min): Reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until completely melted and smooth. Season this rich broccoli cheddar soup with ½ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp white pepper, and salt to taste. If your cheese isn’t melting smoothly, ensure the heat is very low and whisk continuously; never boil the soup after adding cheese, as it can curdle.

Optional variations: For an Instant Pot version, sauté aromatics, add liquids and broccoli, then pressure cook for 3 minutes with a quick release, stirring in cream and cheese afterward. For a slow cooker, combine ingredients (except cream and cheese), cook on low for 4-6 hours until vegetables are tender, then stir in dairy at the end.

Quick tips to avoid mistakes: Always grate your own block of cheese for the best melt; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that hinder smoothness. Additionally, avoid boiling the panera bread broccoli cheddar soup recipe after adding the cheese to prevent curdling, ensuring a silky finish every time.

This Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe in orange cheddar bread bowls is versatile, perfect for many family-friendly dining scenarios.

When to use:

• Cozy weeknight dinners.
• Impressive family lunches.
• Game day gatherings.
• Comforting fall/winter meals.

Pairings:

• A light, crisp green salad.
• A hearty grilled cheese sandwich.
• Warm, crusty bread.

Storage and reheating guidance:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding liquid if too thick. Bread bowls are always best enjoyed fresh.

Health & Everyday Benefits of Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Homemade soup offers delicious flavor and several health benefits, a satisfying option for a balanced meal.

3-5 bullet benefits:

• Packed with Vitamins C and K from broccoli, supporting immunity and bone health.
• Good source of protein and calcium from dairy, vital for bones and muscles.
• A hearty, satisfying meal, providing sustained energy.
• Offers comforting warmth and satiety.

Keyword-friendly phrases:

This broccoli cheddar soup delivers healthy dinner recipes, high-calcium meals, satisfying comfort food, and easy family meals.

Fit with lifestyle diets:

Easily modified for vegetarians (vegetable broth), gluten-free (GF flour), or lower-fat (skim milk, less cream).

Budget, Prep & Time Value of This Copycat Panera Recipe

Creating your own copycat Panera recipe at home provides significant value in time and cost, ideal for meal prep recipes.

Time breakdown:

Total time is approximately 50 minutes (15-20 min prep, 30-35 min cook). A great option for quick meals.

Cost per serving:

Typically $2-$3 per serving, a substantial saving compared to dining out, making it an economical choice for family dinners.

Cost-saving tips:

• Grate block cheese yourself for better value.
• Look for sales on broccoli and store-brand broths.

Meal prep suggestions:

Make a large batch for quick lunches or dinners. The soup freezes well (without bread bowls) for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and warm gently.

Ingredient Shopping & Trendy Picks for Your Soup

Sourcing ingredients is straightforward. Quality enhances the flavor of your Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe.

Best sources:

Find most ingredients at local supermarkets. Farmer’s markets offer excellent fresh, seasonal broccoli for vibrant soup.

When to buy organic vs conventional:

Consider organic broccoli if budget allows for premium ingredients; otherwise, conventional is fine. Freshness is key.

Mentions:

Explore online grocery delivery services for convenient ingredient sourcing, saving time for busy households.

Expert Adjustments & Pro Hacks for Next-Level Flavor

Elevate your homemade broccoli cheddar soup with these test-kitchen adjustments; small tweaks make a big difference.

Flavor upgrades:

Add a pinch of fresh nutmeg or a dash of white pepper for subtle spice. A spoonful of Dijon mustard adds depth; I sometimes add a tiny bit of smoked paprika to the roux for an extra layer of savory complexity.

Adjustments for texture:

For thicker soup, simmer longer before adding cheese, or blend a portion with an immersion blender. For thinner, simply add more broth or milk.

Allergy and dietary modifications:

For dairy allergies, use plant-based milks and vegan shredded cheese. For gluten sensitivities, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure vegetable broth for vegetarian options.

FAQs About Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Here are common questions about making and enjoying this fantastic Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe at home.

Is Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup good for weight loss diets?

It can be enjoyed in moderation. For weight loss, focus on mindful portions and consider lower-fat dairy options like skim milk. It’s a satisfying meal.

Can I make this broccoli cheddar soup recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the soup stores wonderfully for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, great for meal prep recipes. However, the orange cheddar bread bowls are best prepared and enjoyed fresh.

What’s the best cheese for a copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Sharp cheddar is highly recommended for authentic flavor and creamy melt. I always grate my own block cheese; pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents affecting melt.

Can I freeze homemade broccoli cheddar soup?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Dairy soups can change texture; thaw slowly and whisk well during gentle reheating. This is a great tip for meal prep.

How do I make the ‘orange cheddar bread bowls’ for this soup?

Hollow out artisan rolls, brush with oil/butter, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. During the last 2 minutes, sprinkle cheese inside to melt before filling.

What are some healthy swaps for this broccoli cheddar soup recipe?

To lighten this Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe, use low-fat milk or half-and-half, reduced-fat cheese, and vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

How can I thicken my homemade broccoli cheddar soup?

Create a proper roux at the beginning, cooking for one minute. If still thin, simmer longer, or carefully blend a portion to incorporate broccoli and thicken.

Enjoy the satisfaction of creating this beloved Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe in delightful orange cheddar bread bowls. It’s an easy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying meal for healthy family dinners; I know it’s a regular favorite in my home, so be sure to save this recipe to your Pinterest!

Print