Broccoli Cheddar Soup – Panera Dupe

If you’re craving that creamy, cheesy bowl of comfort from Panera but don’t want to leave home, this Broccoli Cheddar Soup dupe has you covered. It’s velvety, loaded with tender broccoli and carrots, and finished with sharp cheddar cheese for the ultimate cozy flavor. The best part? It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve in bread bowls for a weekend treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Panera at home – Same creamy, cheesy flavor without the price tag.

• 30 minutes to cozy – Quick prep and simmer time.

• Family favorite – Even picky eaters love this one.

• Cheesy indulgence – Two cups of cheddar make it ultra-rich and satisfying.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 5 Tbsp salted butter

• ½ cup yellow onion, chopped

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1¾ cups chicken broth

• 2 cups half & half

• 3 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized

• 1 cup julienned carrots

• 1 tsp salt

• Black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Cook the onions. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent with golden edges, about 4–5 minutes.

2. Make the roux. Sprinkle flour over onions and whisk constantly until the mixture turns golden brown.

3. Build the base. Slowly pour in chicken broth and half & half while whisking to avoid clumps. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer.

4. Simmer the veggies. Stir in broccoli and carrots. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until vegetables are tender.

5. Finish with cheese. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve immediately with crusty bread or hollowed-out bread bowls for the full Panera-style experience.

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

• Freezer: This soup does not freeze well once dairy and cheese are added. If you want to freeze it, make the base and freeze before adding the cheese and half & half. Stir those in fresh after reheating.

• Canning: This recipe is not safe for canning because it contains dairy and flour. Stick with refrigeration or freezer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Cheddar Soup has become a staple at 491 West Main St — rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort food for cold nights, and my family agrees it’s as good (if not better!) than the restaurant version.

Try it and let me know what you think — dupe or no dupe?