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Easy one-pot broccoli cheddar soup, creamy and cheesy, inspired by Panera’s classic recipe
@idalischasee | Meals and Motherhood

Cozy Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Copycat)

5 from 2 votes
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with broccoli — this cozy broccoli cheddar soup tastes just like Panera’s, ready in 30 minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 onion diced
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 shallot minced
  • 3 carrots shredded
  • 6 oz bacon cut into small pieces
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • 4 cups broccoli florets chopped
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for a kick
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp butter

Method
 

  1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the grease in the pot.
  2. Add diced onion and shallot to the pot and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Add butter and stir until melted. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking until it forms a thick paste (roux).
  4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth and combined.
  5. Stir in milk and heavy cream. Mix well.
  6. Add carrots and broccoli florets. Cover and let simmer for about 15–20 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
  7. Stir in thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, smoked paprika, nutmeg, and salt and pepper. Mix to combine.
  8. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon. Stir until melted and fully blended.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Notes

 

  • Don’t let the soup boil after adding cheese — it can separate.
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar for best melting.
  • Freezes well for up to 2 months.