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Real Broccoli Cheese Soup

This Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup recipe is comfort food at its finest and full of cheesy flavor. Made with real cheddar cheese and loaded with broccoli, you will find yourself craving this all year long.
Course Dinner Recipes
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Author Jesseca

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1/2 cup onion chopped (about 1/4 of an onion)
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 10 oz frozen broccoli florets slightly thawed and chopped
  • 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the onion and carrot to the pot and saute for 2 to 3 minutes, or until just softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and allow to cook for 1 minute.
  • Move the vegetables to the side of the pot.
  • Place the butter into the cleared space and allow to melt.
  • Whisk the flour in with the melted butter. It’s ok if the vegetables get mixed in a little.
  • Let this mixture cook for 30 seconds, or until you start to see bubbles forming.
  • Whisk in the chicken broth, broccoli, and garlic powder.
  • Bring to a simmer and allow to cook for 20 minutes or until the broccoli has softened.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and cheese. Heat until the cheese has melted and the cream has warmed.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve topped with additional cheese if desired.

Notes

  • I opt to use frozen broccoli florets in this recipe as a time saver. I do let them slightly thaw and chop them into smaller pieces so we can get small broccoli bits in every bite.
  • You can definitely use fresh broccoli in place of the frozen.
  • No cream? No problem. Half and half will work in its place. Just substitute equal amounts.
  • Try a blend of different cheeses. Pick up your favorite variety and substitute half of the cheddar. Using half sharp cheddar and half pepper jack is game changing.
  • Need more protein for a heartier dish? Add cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken.