Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup is a beloved classic known for its creamy texture, rich cheddar flavor, and comforting warmth.
Whether you crave the original version or want to try creative twists, there’s a soup recipe out there for everyone.
From quick stovetop preparations to slow cooker versions, keto-friendly adaptations, and even vegan alternatives, these 22+ Panera broccoli cheddar soup recipes bring all the deliciousness of the iconic soup right to your kitchen.
Perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or anytime you want a hearty bowl of comfort, these recipes cover a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
22+ Delicious Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipes to Try Today
These 22+ Panera broccoli cheddar soup recipes showcase the versatility and timeless appeal of this comforting dish.
Whether you prefer a classic creamy bowl, a healthier low-carb version, or a plant-based alternative, there’s a recipe here that fits your needs.
Experiment with different cooking methods and ingredients to find your favorite way to enjoy this crowd-pleaser.
Whichever you choose, these soups promise the perfect balance of cheesy richness and tender broccoli to warm you up and satisfy your cravings.
copycat panera broccoli cheddar soup
Copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup perfectly replicates the creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors of the famous cafe’s signature soup.
This recipe uses fresh broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth base made with onions, carrots, and cream for a rich and satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until tender. Stir in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Using an immersion blender, blend part of the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese, heating gently until cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This copycat recipe captures the smooth, cheesy goodness and perfect broccoli texture that makes Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup a beloved comfort food classic.
slow cooker panera broccoli cheddar soup
Slow cooker Panera broccoli cheddar soup is an easy, hands-off version of the classic favorite, allowing flavors to meld together perfectly over several hours.
It’s a creamy and cheesy soup made effortlessly in the slow cooker, ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Place broccoli, carrots, onion, chicken broth, butter, and flour in a slow cooker. Stir well and cook on low for several hours until vegetables are tender and soup thickens. Using an immersion blender, blend a portion of the soup for a creamy consistency while keeping some texture. Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
This slow cooker recipe delivers the same creamy richness and cheesy flavor as Panera’s soup, with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
keto panera broccoli cheddar soup
Keto Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a low-carb, high-fat adaptation of the classic that retains the rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors without the carbs.
It uses heavy cream and cheese for creaminess and cauliflower alongside broccoli for a keto-friendly twist.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons almond flour (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent. Stir in almond flour and cook briefly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cauliflower and cook until tender. Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender to desired creaminess. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese, heating gently until cheese melts. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This keto-friendly version keeps the comforting flavors of Panera’s soup while fitting perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic diets.
creamy panera broccoli cheddar soup
Creamy Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a rich and velvety take on the beloved classic, blending tender broccoli with sharp cheddar in a smooth and luscious broth.
This recipe emphasizes a silky texture that melts in your mouth, perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrot until soft. Stir in flour to make a roux and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This creamy version highlights the indulgent texture and classic cheesy flavor, making it a comforting favorite for any day.
stovetop panera broccoli cheddar soup
Stovetop Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a quick and straightforward recipe that recreates the iconic soup’s signature flavor without complicated steps.
It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli and fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until tender. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until soft. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for creaminess while retaining texture. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
This stovetop method is perfect for those who want quick, comforting soup with the classic Panera flavor without fuss.
dairy-free panera broccoli cheddar soup
Dairy-free Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a thoughtful adaptation for those avoiding dairy but craving the rich, comforting taste of the original.
It uses dairy-free cheese alternatives and coconut milk to achieve a creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup dairy-free cheddar-style shreds
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrot until soft. Stir in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture. Stir in coconut milk and dairy-free cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This dairy-free version offers a delicious, creamy, and comforting alternative for those with dietary restrictions while staying true to Panera’s beloved soup flavors.
instant pot panera broccoli cheddar soup
Instant Pot Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a quick and convenient way to enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of the classic soup with minimal effort.
This recipe uses the pressure cooker to tenderize broccoli and infuse flavors fast, making it perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt butter. Add onions and carrots, cooking until soft. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Add chicken broth and broccoli, then secure the lid and cook on high pressure for a few minutes. Quick-release the pressure. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some chunks. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
This Instant Pot recipe offers a speedy, foolproof way to create a rich and comforting broccoli cheddar soup that rivals the original.
vegan panera broccoli cheddar soup
Vegan Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a plant-based twist on the classic, using cashews and nutritional yeast to create a creamy, cheesy flavor without dairy.
It’s packed with wholesome vegetables and perfect for anyone following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté onion and carrot in olive oil until soft. Add broccoli and vegetable broth, simmer until broccoli is tender. Blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and a little broth until smooth. Stir the cashew mixture into the soup and blend partially for creaminess while leaving some texture. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This vegan recipe offers a rich, satisfying alternative to traditional broccoli cheddar soup, perfect for a compassionate and healthy lifestyle.
stovetop cheesy broccoli cheddar soup
Stovetop cheesy broccoli cheddar soup is a straightforward, creamy soup with the bold flavors of sharp cheddar and tender broccoli.
This recipe focuses on rich cheese flavor and smooth texture, recreating Panera’s beloved soup with ease.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for one minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to puree some of the soup for creaminess. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This stovetop method delivers a rich, cheesy, and comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you want a taste of Panera at home.
crockpot panera broccoli cheddar soup
Crockpot Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a slow-cooked, creamy delight that develops deep flavors over hours with minimal hands-on time.
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want comforting soup ready when you are.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Add broccoli, carrots, onion, chicken broth, butter, and flour to the crockpot. Stir to combine. Cook on low for several hours until vegetables are tender and the soup thickens. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup, leaving some texture. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
This crockpot version offers rich, creamy, and cheesy soup with the convenience of slow cooking, making it ideal for effortless, comforting meals.
stovetop cheddar broccoli soup with cream cheese
Stovetop cheddar broccoli soup with cream cheese is a rich and velvety twist on the classic Panera favorite.
The addition of cream cheese adds extra creaminess and tang for a deeply satisfying flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially blend for creaminess. Stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This creamy soup with cream cheese is ultra-rich and perfect for cheese lovers looking to elevate their broccoli cheddar soup experience.
dairy-free coconut broccoli cheddar soup
Dairy-free coconut broccoli cheddar soup uses coconut milk and dairy-free cheese to create a luscious, creamy soup that’s perfect for those avoiding dairy but craving the classic flavors of Panera’s broccoli cheddar soup.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup dairy-free cheddar-style shreds
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrot until soft. Stir in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially blend soup for creaminess. Stir in coconut milk and dairy-free cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This dairy-free alternative delivers rich, comforting flavors and creamy texture, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.
cheesy cauliflower broccoli soup
Cheesy cauliflower broccoli soup is a creamy, low-carb twist on the classic Panera favorite, blending tender broccoli and cauliflower with sharp cheddar cheese in a smooth, comforting broth.
This recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy the flavors you love while adding extra veggies.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft. Stir in flour and cook for one minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cauliflower and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for a creamy texture while leaving some chunks. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This cheesy cauliflower broccoli soup is a comforting, vegetable-packed variation that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy their favorite soup with extra nutrition.
panera-style broccoli cheddar soup with bacon
Panera-style broccoli cheddar soup with bacon adds smoky, crispy bacon to the classic creamy soup, elevating the flavor with a savory crunch.
This recipe balances rich cheese, tender broccoli, and irresistible bacon bits.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent. Stir in flour and cook briefly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for creaminess. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon until cheese melts and everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm with extra bacon on top if desired.
This bacon-enhanced soup offers a smoky, hearty twist on the classic, perfect for bacon lovers craving a rich and satisfying bowl.
vegan creamy broccoli cheddar soup
Vegan creamy broccoli cheddar soup uses plant-based ingredients like cashews and nutritional yeast to create a luscious, cheesy flavor without dairy.
This recipe is perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle but missing the comforting taste of Panera’s classic.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup soaked raw cashews
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Sauté onion and carrot in olive oil until soft. Add broccoli and vegetable broth, simmer until broccoli is tender. Blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and some broth until smooth and creamy. Stir cashew mixture into the soup and partially blend for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This vegan creamy broccoli cheddar soup delivers rich, satisfying flavors without any dairy, making it a delicious and inclusive comfort food option.
stovetop broccoli cheddar soup with white wine
Stovetop broccoli cheddar soup with white wine adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor from dry white wine, elevating the classic creamy soup into a gourmet experience.
It’s perfect for those who want a sophisticated twist on a comforting favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and white wine, bringing to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for creaminess while leaving some chunks. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This white wine-enhanced broccoli cheddar soup offers a refined, rich flavor perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to something special.
broccoli cheddar soup with roasted garlic
Broccoli cheddar soup with roasted garlic intensifies the soup’s flavor with the sweet, mellow taste of slow-roasted garlic.
This recipe adds depth and complexity while maintaining the creamy, cheesy texture you love.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 head garlic
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced carrot
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30-35 minutes until soft. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat and sauté onion and carrot until tender. Stir in flour and cook briefly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Squeeze roasted garlic into the pot and stir well. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
The roasted garlic adds a deliciously sweet and savory undertone that perfectly complements the classic broccoli cheddar flavors.
spicy broccoli cheddar soup
Spicy broccoli cheddar soup adds a bold kick to the traditional creamy soup with the addition of cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes.
This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy a little heat alongside their comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until soft. Stir in flour and cook for one minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until broccoli is tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for creaminess. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
This spicy broccoli cheddar soup is a fiery twist on a classic, perfect for warming you up and tantalizing your taste buds.
loaded broccoli cheddar soup
Loaded broccoli cheddar soup is a hearty version of the classic, enhanced with diced potatoes, crispy bacon, and extra sharp cheddar for a fully satisfying meal.
This recipe balances creamy texture with savory, smoky flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 3 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add potatoes and cook until tender. Add broccoli and cook until soft. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and bacon until cheese melts and soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This loaded soup is perfect for chilly days when you want a comforting, filling bowl that feels like a full meal.
broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower
Broccoli cheddar soup with cauliflower blends tender broccoli and mild cauliflower for a smoother, lower-carb alternative to the traditional soup.
It maintains rich cheddar flavor and creamy texture, ideal for those looking for a lighter option.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cauliflower and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for creaminess while leaving some texture. Stir in half-and-half and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This broccoli cauliflower soup provides a creamy, cheesy flavor with a lighter vegetable profile, perfect for low-carb or keto diets.
creamy broccoli cheddar soup with leeks
Creamy broccoli cheddar soup with leeks introduces the mild, sweet flavor of leeks to the classic recipe, adding depth and subtle complexity to the creamy, cheesy base.
This soup is elegant yet easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 medium leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and sauté until tender. Stir in flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add broccoli and cook until tender. Use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup for creaminess. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
This leek-enhanced broccoli cheddar soup offers a refined twist with its subtle sweetness and creamy texture, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy meal.
Conclusion
With so many delicious options available, these 22+ Panera broccoli cheddar soup recipes prove that you don’t have to limit yourself to the traditional. From rich and creamy slow cooker versions to dairy-free and spicy twists, there’s a soup for every palate and lifestyle. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these recipes offer easy, flavorful, and comforting meals that bring the magic of Panera right to your table. Dive in, get creative, and enjoy the cozy goodness of broccoli cheddar soup like never before.
