Copycat Panera Broccoli And Cheese Soup

We don’t have a Panera where I am, so I wanted to come up with a copycat version of the Panera Broccoli and Cheese soup. And I have to say that this recipe is so close to the original, I make it whenever I want something so warm and comforting. It’s perfect with a fresh baked baguette or the kids also love it with crackers. 

Preparation Time 10 minutes 

Cook Time 45 minutes 

Serves 4 

Ingredients 

4 tablespoons butter 

2 heads broccoli- in florets 

1 cup julienned carrots 

1/2 small onion- diced 

2 cloves garlic- minced 

4 tablespoons flour 

2 cups chicken broth 

1 teaspoon salt 

1/2 teaspoon black pepper 

1/2 teaspoon paprika 

1 cup heavy cream 

1 cup milk 

2 cups shredded cheese 

Instructions 

1. Melt butter in a large pot. Add the onions and sauté on a low heat for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and saute for a further minute. 

2. Add the flour and cook it out for a couple minutes until fragrant. Then slowly pour in the chicken broth while mixing so the mixture doesn’t become lumpy. 

3. Add the spices, carrots and broccoli. Cover and cook it on a low heat for 15 minutes. 

4. Slowly pour the milk and heavy cream into the soup and mix it in well. Slowly add the cheese and mix It in, allowing it to melt without curdling. Cook it for 2 minutes, then serve with bread sticks or a warm baguette.