Name: Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera-Style Variant)
Ingredients: Ingredients; For the Soup:; 4 tablespoons 60 g unsalted butter; 1 small onion (finely diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup 30 g all-purpose flour; 2 cups 480 ml chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups 480 ml half-and-half or whole milk; 3 cups 300 g broccoli florets, finely chopped; 1 cup 100 g shredded carrots (matchstick or grated); ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional); 2 cups 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated; Optional Garnishes:; Extra cheddar cheese; Croutons or toasted bread cubes; A drizzle of cream

Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera-Style Variant)

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 6 servings

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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Ingredients
For the Soup:
4 tablespoons 60 g unsalted butter
1 small onion finely diced
2 cloves garlic minced
¼ cup 30 g all-purpose flour
2 cups 480 ml chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups 480 ml half-and-half or whole milk
3 cups 300 g broccoli florets, finely chopped
1 cup 100 g shredded carrots (matchstick or grated)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika optional
2 cups 200 g sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Optional Garnishes:
Extra cheddar cheese
Croutons or toasted bread cubes
A drizzle of cream

Method

Directions
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Roux
Sprinkle in flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to create a smooth base.
Add Liquids
Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk (or half-and-half). Whisk continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add Vegetables
Stir in broccoli, carrots, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and creamy. Avoid boiling after adding the cheese to prevent curdling.
Blend (Optional)
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup — or leave it chunky for a heartier bite.
Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with extra cheese and croutons. Serve with warm bread for dipping.

Notes

Chef’s Tip
• Always use freshly grated cheddar — pre-shredded cheese won’t melt smoothly.
• For a smoky twist, add a dash of smoked paprika or use smoked cheddar.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera-Style)