broccoli cheddar soup panera

Broccoli Cheddar Soup from Panera Bread is a popular soup dish served at Panera Bread, a chain of bakery-cafe restaurants in the United States. This soup is a creamy and flavorful soup made with a base of cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli. It typically contains ingredients such as broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, cream, and various seasonings. The soup is often garnished with additional cheddar cheese or croutons.

Panera Bread is known for its freshly baked bread and a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches. Broccoli Cheddar Soup is one of their signature menu items and is loved by many for its rich and comforting flavor. It’s often served in a bread bowl, where a portion of the bread is hollowed out to create a bowl-like container for the soup.

ingredients for broccoli cheddar soup panera

1. Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli is a key ingredient in this soup, providing its distinct flavor and texture.
2. Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is used to add creaminess and a rich, cheesy flavor to the soup.
3. Cream: Heavy cream or a similar dairy product is used to create the creamy base of the soup.
4. Butter: Butter is often used for sautéing the vegetables and creating a roux to thicken the soup.
5. Flour: Flour is combined with butter to create a roux, which serves as a thickening agent for the soup.
6. Onions: Onions are typically sautéed with the broccoli to add flavor and aroma to the soup.
7. Carrots: Carrots may be included for added flavor and a touch of sweetness.
8. Celery: Celery is another aromatic vegetable that can enhance the soup’s flavor.
9. Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth is used as the liquid base for the soup, adding depth of flavor.
10. Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are used to enhance the taste of the soup.
11. Nutmeg: Nutmeg is sometimes added for a hint of warm, nutty flavor.
12. Garlic: Minced garlic can be included for extra savory notes.

Please note that the exact ingredients and proportions may vary slightly by location and recipe variations.

how to make broccoli cheddar soup panera?

Here’s a basic recipe for making broccoli cheddar soup similar to Panera Bread’s version:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 head of broccoli)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by washing and chopping the broccoli florets into small pieces. Set them aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. If you’re using garlic, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook and stir occasionally until the vegetables become tender, usually about 5-7 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to create a roux. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour.
5. Gradually add the vegetable broth and milk to the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until it thickens.
6. Add the chopped broccoli florets to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the broccoli becomes tender.
7. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If using a regular blender, blend the soup in batches and be cautious as hot liquids can splatter.
8. Return the pureed soup to the pot (if using a regular blender), and place it over low heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the soup is creamy.
9. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if desired). Adjust the seasonings to your taste.
10. Once everything is well combined and the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve. Ladle the broccoli cheddar soup into bowls and garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade broccoli cheddar soup! This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.

tips and tricks for making broccoli cheddar soup similar to Panera’s at home

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh broccoli florets and good-quality cheddar cheese. Fresh ingredients can enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
2. Sharp Cheddar Cheese: For a richer flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese. Its strong flavor pairs well with the broccoli.
3. Saute the Vegetables: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in butter before adding the liquid base can bring out their flavors. Cook them until they become tender and aromatic.
4. Create a Smooth Roux: Ensure the roux (butter and flour mixture) is smooth and cooked properly. This helps thicken the soup without lumps.
5. Gradually Add Liquid: When adding the vegetable broth and milk to the roux, do it gradually while stirring constantly. This prevents lumps from forming.
6. Simmer to Blend Flavors: Let the soup simmer for an adequate amount of time to allow the flavors to meld together. This can enhance the overall taste of the soup.
7. Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Be cautious not to overcook the broccoli. It should be tender but still have a vibrant green color. Overcooking can result in a dull color and loss of flavor.
8. Season Well: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and any additional spices like nutmeg to taste. Seasoning is key to achieving the right flavor balance.
9. Blend Carefully: When using a regular blender to puree the soup, be cautious as hot liquids can splatter. Blend in batches if necessary and allow the soup to cool slightly before blending.
10. Garnish Creatively: To enhance the presentation and flavor, consider garnishing your soup with extra shredded cheddar cheese, croutons, or a drizzle of cream.
11. Serve in a Bread Bowl: For an extra special touch, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl, just like Panera does.
12. Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add your own twist to the soup. You can include ingredients like bacon bits, diced ham, or even a touch of hot sauce for added flavor.
13. Reheating: If you have leftovers, gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
14. Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

what time does panera serve broccoli cheddar soup?

The specific serving times for Panera Bread’s menu items, including their Broccoli Cheddar Soup, can vary depending on the location and whether it’s a bakery-cafe or drive-thru location. However, Panera typically serves a variety of soups, including Broccoli Cheddar Soup, during their regular hours of operation, which typically start in the morning and extend into the evening.

Panera Bread is known for serving a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, so you can usually find their soups available during lunch and dinner hours. Some locations may also serve soups in the morning, especially if they offer breakfast services.

To find the specific hours of operation and when they serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup at your nearest Panera Bread location, it’s a good idea to check their official website or contact the specific restaurant directly. Keep in mind that hours of operation may vary by location and can change seasonally or due to other factors.

is panera broccoli cheddar soup healthy?

Whether Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is considered healthy or not depends on your individual dietary needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Pros:

1. Broccoli: The soup contains broccoli, which is a nutritious vegetable high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
2. Protein: It provides a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and feeling full.
3. Flavor: It can be a comforting and satisfying option, making it a good choice on occasion.

Cons:

1. High in Calories: The soup can be relatively high in calories, with a typical serving containing around 360-400 calories. If you’re watching your calorie intake, this might be a concern.
2. Fat Content: It is relatively high in fat, which can contribute to the calorie count. A typical serving may contain around 22-27 grams of fat.
3. Sodium: The sodium content can be quite high, with 800-1000 mg of sodium per serving. High sodium intake can be a concern for people with certain health conditions like hypertension.
4. Processed Ingredients: Some versions of this soup may contain processed cheese and other additives, which may not align with a whole-foods-based diet.
5. Carbohydrates: It contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, which can be a consideration for those monitoring carb intake.

In summary, Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup can be a tasty and satisfying option, but it may not be the healthiest choice if you’re watching your calorie, fat, or sodium intake. It’s essential to consider your overall dietary goals and preferences when deciding whether to include it in your diet. If you’re concerned about the nutritional content, you can check for lower-calorie or lower-sodium options on Panera’s menu or consider enjoying it in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

can you freeze panera broccoli cheddar soup?

you can freeze Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup if you want to preserve it for later use. Here’s how to do it properly:

1. Cool the Soup: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before freezing. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can lead to freezer burn.
2. Portion the Soup: Divide the soup into individual serving-sized portions or as needed for your future use. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need without thawing the entire batch.
3. Use Freezer-Safe Containers: Transfer each portion of soup into airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label and Date: It’s essential to label each container or bag with the date of freezing. This way, you can keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
5. Freeze Quickly: Place the containers in the freezer as soon as possible. Try to keep them as flat as possible to save space and allow for quicker freezing.
6. Reheat Properly: When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, you can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be sure to follow proper reheating guidelines to ensure it’s heated thoroughly.

Keep in mind that while you can freeze Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, the texture of the soup may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. Soups with dairy or cheese components can sometimes become a bit grainy or separate, but they are still safe to eat and can often be improved with a good stir.

Additionally, it’s best to consume frozen soup within 2-3 months for the best quality. After that time, the soup may still be safe to eat but could suffer from a decline in flavor and texture.

is panera bread broccoli cheddar soup keto?

Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is not considered keto-friendly due to its relatively high carbohydrate content. The keto diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, and typically, foods with a significant amount of carbohydrates, such as Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, do not align with the principles of the keto diet.

A typical serving of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains around 29-33 grams of carbohydrates, which is significantly higher than what is typically recommended for a keto diet, which usually restricts daily carbohydrate intake to around 20-50 grams or less.

If you are following a keto diet, it’s essential to prioritize foods that are low in carbs and high in healthy fats. Broccoli itself is a keto-friendly vegetable due to its low net carbohydrate content, but the creamy base and added ingredients in Panera’s soup increase the carb count.

If you’re looking for keto-friendly options at Panera, consider salads with keto-friendly toppings, such as grilled chicken or salmon, and dressings that are low in carbs. It’s always a good idea to check the nutritional information for specific menu items to make informed choices that align with your dietary goals.

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Panera-style Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Serves: 8 Prep Time: 15 min Cooking Time: 45 minu 45 minu

Nutrition facts: 304 calories 23g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 heads)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups half-and-half (or use 1 cup milk and 1 cup heavy cream)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the broccoli. Cut the florets into small bite-sized pieces and discard the stems. Set aside.

2. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and butter, then whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden brown and starts to have a nutty aroma.

4. Slowly pour in the half-and-half (or milk and heavy cream mixture) while continuing to whisk. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens.

5. Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, whisking to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the chopped broccoli and shredded carrots. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the broccoli is tender, stirring occasionally.

6. If you want a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup while it's still in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and puree until smooth, then return it to the pot.

7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it's fully melted into the soup. If desired, season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

8. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

9. Serve the Broccoli Cheddar Soup hot, garnished with additional shredded cheese if desired.