Description

A rich, velvety homemade version of the beloved Panera classic—creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli, carrots, and onions. Perfect for cold days or easy weeknight comfort. Easily made vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free.

Ingredients

– ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter

– ½ cup diced onion

– 1 cup shredded carrots

– 2½–3 cups broccoli florets, chopped

– 1½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)

– 1 cup milk (whole or plant-based)

– 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)

– ¼ cup all-purpose flour

– 1½ teaspoons kosher salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)

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Instructions

In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt butter.
Add onion, carrots, and broccoli. Sauté for 5 minutes, until slightly softened.
Slowly pour in chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture, then add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Stir continuously and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring often, until slightly thickened.
Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Do not boil after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Notes

– Always shred your own cheese pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.

– Vegetarian? Use vegetable broth and check that cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

– Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch (mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water, add with broth) or certified GF flour.

– Dairy-free/vegan: Use plant-based butter, unsweetened plant milk, full-fat coconut cream, and vegan cheese shreds.

– Frozen broccoli works thaw and drain well before using.

– Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of milk or broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup / Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1½ cups)
Calories: ~380
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 950mg (varies with broth/cheese—use low-sodium versions to reduce)
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 85mg