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Broccoli and Cheese Soup

This cozy Broccoli and Cheese Soup is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor! Made with fresh broccoli, cheddar cheese, and simple ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort meal that tastes like Panera’s famous broccoli cheddar soup. Perfect for meal prep, crock pot cooking, or freezing in souper cubes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups fresh broccoli florets chopped small
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 cups milk whole or 2%
  • 1 cup heavy cream optional for extra richness
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • A pinch of nutmeg optional
  • Croutons or extra shredded cheese for garnish

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
  2. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
  3. Make the Roux:
  4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
  5. Add Liquids:
  6. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the milk and stir until smooth.
  7. Add Vegetables:
  8. Stir in chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, or until broccoli is tender.
  9. Add Cheese:
  10. Remove from heat. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  11. Blend (Optional):
  12. For a creamier texture like Panera’s version, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup.
  13. Season and Serve:
  14. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Serve hot, topped with croutons or extra cheese.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture.
  • Don’t boil after adding cheese — it can separate.
  • For a thicker soup, simmer a few extra minutes.
  • Freeze leftovers in Souper Cubes for up to 3 months.
  • To make it in a Crock Pot, add all ingredients except cheese and milk, cook on LOW for 4–5 hours, then stir in dairy and cheese at the end.