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Copycat 30‑Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup

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This Copycat 30-Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup is a rich, creamy, and cheesy soup that tastes just like the one from Panera Bread — but made in the comfort of your own kitchen in just half an hour.

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 cup matchstick or shredded carrots
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in the half and half while whisking to avoid lumps.
  5. Add the chicken broth and whisk to combine. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened slightly.
  6. Add chopped broccoli and carrots. Simmer for another 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Season with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
  8. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  9. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup slightly, if desired, or leave chunky for texture.
  10. Serve hot with crusty bread or in a bread bowl.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results — pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • The soup thickens as it cools, so thin with a bit of broth or milk when reheating.

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