Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

If you’re a fan of comforting soups and enjoy a hearty, cheesy meal, then Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup might just be the dish you’ve been craving. Known for its rich flavor, velvety texture, and the satisfying combination of fresh broccoli and cheddar cheese, this soup has become a favorite for many. In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, from its origins and nutritional information to delicious homemade recipes that mimic the Panera experience. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative or simply want to learn how to make your own version at home, we’ve got you covered!

Introduction to Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Overview of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

When you think of Panera Bread, you probably think of the comforting aroma of fresh baked bread and the mouthwatering taste of their signature soups. Among them, the Broccoli Cheddar Soup stands out as an all-time favorite. This creamy, cheesy concoction features tender broccoli florets, savory carrots, and a rich cheddar base, all of which come together to create a soul-warming bowl of comfort.

For many, it’s not just a meal—it’s a ritual. Whether you’re eating it on a chilly day or pairing it with a warm bread bowl, Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a taste of home in every bite. It’s no wonder that this dish has become a staple on their menu, with millions of people enjoying it each year.

Nutritional Information

While Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is undeniably delicious, it’s important to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the soup’s caloric content and macronutrients:

• A typical cup of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains about 230 calories.
• If you opt for a bowl, you’re looking at around 360 calories.
• And for those who want the full experience, a bread bowl version will run you about 900 calories—a hefty but satisfying choice.

In terms of macronutrients, the soup has a decent balance of fats, proteins, and carbs. On average, the soup contains around:

• Fat: 13-21g
• Protein: 9-35g
• Carbohydrates: 17-35g

If you’re curious about more specific numbers, tools like Fast Food Nutrition can give you detailed breakdowns for both the soup and other Panera menu items (source).

Ingredients and Allergen Information

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup gets its signature flavor from a blend of cheddar cheese, milk, heavy cream, and butter. The broccoli florets are sautéed in a rich broth, adding a deliciously fresh crunch to each spoonful. Additionally, carrots, onions, and Dijon mustard contribute to the soup’s depth of flavor.

However, before you dig in, it’s essential to know about potential allergens. The soup contains:

• Gluten (in the bread bowl version)
• Milk (a key ingredient)
• Wheat (in the bread bowl)

If you have any food sensitivities, be sure to check the allergen guide or opt for a custom order that suits your dietary needs.

In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at some homemade copycat recipes that capture the flavors of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, so you can enjoy this comforting dish in the comfort of your own home. Stay tuned for tips on making it just right!

Homemade Copycat Recipes

Introduction to Homemade Versions

If you’re craving Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup but can’t make it to the café, don’t worry! You can easily make your own version at home. Making soup from scratch gives you control over the ingredients and allows you to adjust flavors to suit your taste. Plus, there’s something extra special about enjoying a bowl of soup you created yourself. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, these easy recipes will help you recreate the delicious flavors of Panera’s famous soup right in your kitchen.

Easy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Making Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup at home doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple recipe to help you get started:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups of broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, diced
• 4 cups of chicken stock
• 2 cups of half-and-half (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (for thickening)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: Bread bowls for serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, carrot, chicken stock, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the soup to thicken it.
4. Add the half-and-half, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Remove the pot from heat, then stir in the cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the soup is smooth.
6. If you want to serve the soup in a bread bowl, hollow out a fresh loaf of bread and ladle the soup inside.

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It’s an easy way to enjoy the Panera-inspired soup at home, and you can adjust the thickness and seasoning to your liking. For more creative twists, try adding a bit of hot sauce or extra cheese for a bolder flavor.

The Real Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Want to get as close to the real deal as possible? This next recipe offers a more authentic taste of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup of processed cheddar cheese (like Velveeta)
• 3 cups of chicken stock
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 2 cups of broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup of carrots, finely chopped
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of hot sauce (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
2. Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for another 1-2 minutes, until the mixture forms a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and bring to a simmer. Add the Dijon mustard and whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese and processed cheese (Velveeta) until melted.
5. Add the chicken stock and heavy cream, then toss in the broccoli and carrots. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt, white pepper, and hot sauce to taste.

This version closely mimics the rich, creamy texture and flavor profile of the original. The use of Velveeta gives it that signature smoothness that many people recognize from Panera.

For a more detailed version of this recipe, you can visit Allrecipes.

The Best Broccoli Cheese Soup (Better-Than-Panera Copycat)

If you’re looking for a better-than-Panera experience, this next recipe might be just what you need. This version is loaded with flavors and has a nice balance of creamy richness and vegetable goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 cups of vegetable broth
• 2 cups of half-and-half
• 3 cups of broccoli florets
• 1/2 cup of carrots, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon of mustard powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 2 cups of extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft, about 4 minutes.
2. Stir in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and add the half-and-half, broccoli, and carrots. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. Season with smoked paprika, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese until the soup is thick and creamy.

This recipe adds a little extra kick with the paprika and cayenne pepper, making it a flavorful twist on the classic. You can find more details for this recipe at Averie Cooks.

Homemade soups can be just as delicious as restaurant versions—sometimes even better! These recipes give you the freedom to experiment and find your ideal balance of ingredients. Whether you like it extra cheesy or a bit lighter, you can tweak these recipes to your liking.

In the next section, we will explore the health benefits of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, as well as some healthier alternatives you can try. Stay tuned!

Health Considerations

Nutritional Analysis of Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is tasty, but it’s important to know its nutritional content. A small serving can be quite rich in calories and fats. Here’s a quick breakdown of the soup’s main nutritional information:

• A cup of the soup has about 230 calories.
• A bowl has roughly 360 calories.
• If you go for the bread bowl, expect about 900 calories.

While this soup is delicious, it can be high in fat and calories. A regular bowl of the soup contains 13-21 grams of fat, which makes up a significant portion of the calories. On the plus side, it also offers some protein—about 9-35 grams depending on the serving size.

For those keeping track of their carbohydrates, a bowl of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains around 17-35 grams of carbs. And let’s not forget the sodium, which can be quite high. If you’re watching your salt intake, it’s a good idea to consume the soup in moderation.

Panera’s soup also offers some micronutrients, including calcium, iron, and vitamin A, which are important for maintaining healthy bones, blood, and skin. However, these nutrients are not enough to make the soup a superfood—it’s more of a comfort food with a few nutritional perks.

For more details on Panera’s nutrition facts, you can refer to websites like Fast Food Nutrition.

Healthier Homemade Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter, healthier version of Broccoli Cheddar Soup, you can easily make some changes at home. Here are a few tips to make the soup more nutritious without losing its flavor:

• Use Less Cream – Instead of heavy cream, you can use low-fat milk or half-and-half. This cuts down on the fat and calories while still giving the soup a creamy texture.
• Add More Vegetables – Boost the fiber content by adding extra broccoli, spinach, or other green veggies. This will help you feel fuller for longer.
• Go Easy on the Cheese – While cheese is essential for flavor, you can reduce the amount used or choose a lower-fat cheese for a healthier option. Opting for sharp cheddar also allows you to use less without sacrificing taste.
• Use a Plant-Based Broth – For a lighter soup, swap chicken stock for a vegetable broth. This can lower the sodium content, making the soup healthier for those monitoring their salt intake.
• Make a Gluten-Free Version – If you’re avoiding gluten, you can serve the soup without the bread bowl or use gluten-free bread as an alternative.

By making these small changes, you can still enjoy a comforting, flavorful bowl of soup without feeling guilty. Plus, you can control what goes into your dish, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Health-conscious eaters can find even more tips and ideas by brow

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

How to Serve Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is great on its own, but you can easily enhance the meal with a few fun serving ideas. Whether you’re making it at home or enjoying it from Panera, here are some ways to make the soup even better:

• Serve in a Bread Bowl
  The bread bowl is a classic. It adds texture and flavor while soaking up the creamy soup. If you’re making the soup at home, you can grab a fresh loaf of sourdough or crusty bread to create your own bowl. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a meal that’s both filling and fun!
• Add a Side Salad
  Pair the soup with a light side salad for a balanced meal. A simple green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing complements the rich and creamy soup. If you want to keep things healthy, try adding some avocado or cucumbers to the salad.
• Pair with a Sandwich
  A sandwich and soup is a classic combo. You could go with a turkey sandwich, a grilled cheese, or even a chicken Caesar wrap. The fresh, crispy bread contrasts nicely with the smooth texture of the soup.
• Add Crunchy Toppings
  To make your soup more interesting, try adding some crunchy toppings. Crumbled croutons, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or even crispy bacon bits can give the soup a little extra flair.
• Serve with a Fruit Side
  For a lighter pairing, serve your soup with fresh fruit, such as apple slices, grapes, or berries. The sweetness of the fruit balances the savory flavors of the soup.

Perfect Pairings to Elevate the Meal

While the soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can make it even better. Here are a few suggestions that pair wonderfully with Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup:

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – This classic pairing is hard to beat. The warm, melted cheese in a grilled sandwich goes perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup. It’s a comforting combo that feels like home.
• Roasted Veggies – If you’re looking for something healthier, serve the soup with some roasted vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, or zucchini. The natural sweetness of the veggies contrasts nicely with the rich, cheesy soup.
• Crispy Potato Chips – For an easy and crunchy side, pair your soup with some crispy potato chips. They add an enjoyable texture and a salty contrast to the creamy soup. For extra flavor, try salt and vinegar chips.
• Garlic Bread – If you love bread, garlic bread is always a winner. The buttery, garlicky flavor of the bread adds a savory twist to the meal and pairs wonderfully with the soup’s creamy, cheesy taste.
• Fruit Salad – If you’re aiming for something refreshing and light, a fruit salad is the way to go. It adds a burst of sweetness and provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the soup.

Pairing Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup with these options creates a full meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, these side dishes can elevate your soup experience.

In the next section, we’ll dive into the FAQs surrounding Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup. We’ll answer some common questions about the soup, its ingredients, and how to make it healthier. Stay tuned!

sing websites like Nutrition Stripped, which provides a wide range of healthy recipe options.

In the next section, we will explore some creative ways to serve Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup and offer suggestions on how to pair it with other dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup made of?

Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is made with cheddar cheese, broccoli, carrots, onions, and cream. The ingredients are combined into a smooth, creamy base, with a little seasoning to bring out the flavor. It’s a comforting soup that’s rich and cheesy, perfect for a cold day.

Is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup vegetarian?

Yes, Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is vegetarian, but it’s not vegan. It contains dairy products, like cheddar cheese and cream. If you’re vegan, you can make a homemade version using plant-based cheese and non-dairy milk.

Can I make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup gluten-free?

Yes! You can make the soup gluten-free by skipping the bread bowl or using gluten-free bread if you want that classic bread bowl experience. Also, check that your chicken stock is gluten-free. Most of the soup’s ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adjust.

How many calories are in Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

The calories in Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup depend on the serving size:

• A cup of soup has about 230 calories.
• A bowl contains around 360 calories.
• A bread bowl adds up to about 900 calories.

If you’re watching your calories, you can always skip the bread bowl and go for a smaller portion.

How can I make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup healthier?

To make the soup healthier, try these tips:

• Use low-fat milk or non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add more broccoli or other veggies for extra fiber.
• Use less cheese or opt for a lower-fat cheese.
• Serve the soup with a salad or healthy sides instead of a bread bowl.

These small changes can help you enjoy the soup while cutting back on calories and fat.

Can I freeze Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove.

Is Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup available year-round?

Yes, Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is available year-round. It’s one of their most popular menu items, and many people love it as a go-to comfort food during the colder months. You can enjoy it whenever you’re in the mood for something cheesy and warm.

In the next section, we’ll cover some great alternative recipes for making a delicious broccoli cheddar soup at home. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie version or just want to try something new, we’ve got ideas to suit every taste.