Go Back
A vibrant, creamy bowl of homemade broccoli cheese soup with tender florets and melted cheddar, viewed from a top-down perspective.
wiame recipes

Creamy Classic Broccoli Cheese Soup

A rich, creamy broccoli cheddar soup inspired by the beloved classic from Panera Bread — loaded with tender broccoli, savory broth, and sharp cheddar cheese for comforting flavor at home.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup all‑purpose flour
  • 2 cups half‑and‑half cream
  • 2 cups low‑sodium chicken broth or low‑sodium vegetable broth
  • 1/2 lb broccoli florets (about 3 cups) chopped into bite‑size pieces
  • 1 cup julienned carrots
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated about 2 cups
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg optional, for flavor depth

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy‑bottomed pot
  • Whisk
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy‑bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the softened onions and butter. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux and cook out the raw flour taste. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
  3. Slowly whisk in the half‑and‑half and chicken broth, ensuring a smooth mixture. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
  4. Add the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10–12 minutes. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
  5. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated, keeping the heat low to prevent graininess. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
  6. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and optional nutmeg. Stir gently to combine. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
  7. Ladle the creamy broccoli cheese soup into bowls and serve hot. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Notes

This homemade broccoli cheddar soup delivers rich, comforting flavor with simple ingredients and replicates the creamy classic you’d find at Panera Bread. Use freshly grated cheddar for the best texture and melt. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}