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Better-Than-Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Easy Copycat Recipe)

Close-up of a white bowl filled with rich, orange broccoli cheddar soup featuring visible florets of broccoli and diced carrots.
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Make this rich, creamy soup that tastes just like the restaurant favorite. This easy homemade broccoli cheddar soup uses simple ingredients for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth to create a slurry.
  4. Slowly whisk the flour and milk slurry into the simmering soup base. Continue to stir until the soup thickens slightly.
  5. Reduce the heat to low. Gradually stir in the heavy cream. Do not let the soup boil after adding the cream.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, stirring constantly until each addition is completely melted and smooth before adding the next.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve this rich cheddar sauce based soup hot.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the cheese.
  • Shred your own cheddar cheese; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
  • Serve this comfort food recipe with crusty bread or in a bread bowl for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/broccoli-cheddar-soup-easy-copycat-recipe/