This velvety, rich, and comforting homemade soup perfectly replicates the beloved cafe classic. Featuring tender broccoli florets, sweet shredded carrots, and a savory vegetable base, this restaurant-quality dish is thickened with a perfect roux and finished with sharp cheddar cheese for that authentic, molten texture. It is a quick and simple recipe that makes the perfect weeknight meal or comforting weekend treat, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with flavor without ever needing to leave your kitchen.
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
3 cups broccoli florets, cut into small pieces
1 cup shredded carrots
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Melt the butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
Sauté the diced onions until they are translucent and soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for two minutes.
Slowly pour in the half-and-half and vegetable broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
Add the broccoli florets and shredded carrots to the pot.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Serve warm.
Always grate your own cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese to ensure the soup melts into a smooth consistency. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth to adjust the consistency to your liking.
Find it online: https://itisrecipes.com/panera-copycat-broccoli-cheddar-soup/