Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Recipe & Key Facts

Panera's broccoli cheddar soup features a creamy texture with tender broccoli florets in a rich cheddar cheese base, known for its balanced flavor that avoids excessive saltiness while maintaining authentic cheese taste. The soup contains no artificial preservatives and is made with fresh broccoli, white cheddar cheese, and a roux-based creamy foundation.

For years, Panera Bread's broccoli cheddar soup has remained one of the most requested menu items across their bakery-café locations. This beloved comfort food stands out in the crowded soup market for its distinctive flavor profile that manages to be both indulgent and approachable. Food enthusiasts and home cooks frequently search for panera broccoli cheddar soup recipe copycat methods to recreate this restaurant favorite in their own kitchens.

What Makes Panera's Version Distinctive

Unlike many commercial broccoli cheddar soups that rely heavily on sodium for flavor, Panera's version achieves depth through quality ingredients and careful preparation. The soup features small, perfectly cooked broccoli florets suspended in a velvety cheese sauce that doesn't separate or become greasy. The cheese blend uses white cheddar rather than orange cheddar, giving it a more sophisticated flavor profile with less artificial coloring.

Food scientists note that Panera's soup maintains an ideal viscosity—thick enough to coat the spoon but still pourable. This texture comes from a traditional roux (butter and flour base) rather than starch thickeners or gums. The soup contains visible broccoli pieces rather than pureed vegetables, providing textural contrast that enhances the eating experience.

Nutritional Profile and Dietary Information

Understanding the panera broccoli cheddar soup nutrition facts helps consumers make informed choices. A standard bowl (16 oz) contains approximately 380 calories, 24g fat (15g saturated), 30g carbohydrates, 14g protein, and 1,190mg sodium. While not low-calorie, the soup provides 3g of dietary fiber and contains vitamin C from the broccoli.

Nutrient	Per 16oz Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	380	19%
Total Fat	24g	31%
Saturated Fat	15g	75%
Cholesterol	75mg	25%
Sodium	1,190mg	52%
Total Carbohydrate	30g	11%
Dietary Fiber	3g	11%
Protein	14g	28%

The soup is vegetarian but not vegan or dairy-free, as it contains both milk and cheese products. It's gluten-free friendly since Panera uses a roux made with wheat flour, though those with severe gluten sensitivity should verify current preparation methods as recipes may change.

Reliable Copycat Recipe for Home Cooking

Creating an authentic copycat panera broccoli cheddar soup recipe at home requires attention to ingredient quality and technique. The following method produces results closest to the original while using accessible ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, finely chopped
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Steam broccoli florets until just tender but still bright green (about 5 minutes). Set aside 1/2 cup for later addition.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden but not browned.
3. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Add vegetable broth, dry mustard, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually add grated cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted.
6. Mix in cream cheese until smooth and well incorporated.
7. Add the steamed broccoli (reserving 1/2 cup for texture), stirring gently to maintain floret integrity.
8. Simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing flavors to meld without boiling.
9. Stir in the reserved broccoli pieces for added texture.
10. Season with salt to taste (be conservative as cheese provides natural saltiness).

The secret to achieving the panera broccoli cheddar soup copycat ingredients authentic texture lies in using freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. White cheddar provides the distinctive color and slightly sharper flavor profile compared to orange cheddar.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Panera typically serves their broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl, which complements the soup's richness. At home, consider pairing with:

• A classic half-sandwich (especially turkey or ham)
• Simple green salad with light vinaigrette
• Crusty artisan bread for dipping
• Apple slices for a refreshing contrast

For those wondering how to make panera broccoli cheddar soup stretch further, adding extra steamed broccoli or cauliflower can increase volume without significantly altering flavor. The soup freezes well for up to three months when stored in airtight containers with minimal headspace.

Common Questions About Panera's Soup

Many home cooks seek clarification on specific aspects of the panera broccoli cheddar soup secret before attempting their own version. Understanding these elements helps achieve more authentic results.

Does Panera broccoli cheddar soup contain bacon or meat products?

No, Panera's broccoli cheddar soup is vegetarian and contains no meat products, bacon, or animal-based broths. The flavor comes from cheese, vegetables, and seasonings.

Why does my homemade broccoli cheddar soup become grainy?

Graininess typically occurs when cheese is added to liquid that's too hot or when using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents. To prevent this, remove the soup base from heat before adding cheese, use freshly grated cheese, and maintain a low temperature during cheese incorporation.

How can I make my copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup thicker?

For a thicker consistency similar to Panera's version, increase the roux proportion slightly (add 1 extra tablespoon of flour to the butter), reduce the soup gently to evaporate excess liquid, or add a small amount of cream cheese which helps stabilize the texture.

Does Panera use artificial ingredients in their broccoli cheddar soup?

According to Panera's 'No No List,' their broccoli cheddar soup contains no artificial preservatives, sweeteners, or flavors. The ingredients list includes recognizable components like broccoli, cheddar cheese, milk, and butter.