Gluten Free Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Embrace the chilly winter days with a bowl of comfort – the Gluten-Free Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This easy and wholesome recipe ensures a warm hug in every spoonful, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family meal on a cold winter day. Whether you’re a fan of Panera’s iconic soup or looking for a gluten-free alternative, this blog post has the recipe to fulfill your cravings.
Crafting a Homemade Chicken Broth:
The foundation of any great soup is a homemade chicken broth, and this recipe is no exception. Simmering a mix of fresh broccoli florets, pre-shredded carrots, and aromatic spices in a large pot on medium heat allows the flavors to meld into a rich and flavorful broth. The longer the simmer, the more robust the broth becomes.
Building a Flavorful Base:
Creating a delicious base is crucial for any soup, and this recipe takes inspiration from Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup. The velvety base is achieved by crafting a roux with gluten-free flour, butter, and half-and-half. This creamy canvas sets the stage for the star ingredient – sharp cheddar cheese – to deliver that signature cheesy goodness.
Choosing the Right Cheese:
The spotlight is on sharp cheddar cheese, providing a rich and cheesy flavor that elevates each spoonful. Experiment with different cheese varieties or opt for a milder cheddar for a subtler taste. Grate the cheese gradually, allowing it to melt and infuse the soup with creamy indulgence.
Adding a Vegetable Twist:Fresh vegetables, such as broccoli and carrots, contribute not only color and texture but also nutritional value. These bite-sized additions enhance the overall profile of the soup. For those seeking a vegetarian option, switch chicken broth with vegetable stock and omit the meat for a delightful Vegetarian Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options:
In a culinary landscape with diverse dietary preferences, accommodating various needs is essential. To make this recipe vegan, substitute butter with vegan butter, half-and-half with a plant-based alternative, and opt for vegan cheddar cheese. For a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are free from gluten additives.
Perfecting the Gluten-Free Broccoli Cheddar Soup:
Achieving a creamy texture is key to a successful soup. Use an immersion blender to create a smooth consistency while maintaining the chunkiness of the broccoli and carrots. Season with black pepper, salt, and a hint of garlic powder for an added depth of flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, ensuring each spoonful is a burst of warmth and taste.
Enhancements and Serving Suggestions: Elevate your Gluten Free Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup experience with these enhancements:
- Sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami kick.
- Drizzle in heavy cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a hint of heat.
- Serve the soup in a gluten-free bread bowl for a rustic and comforting presentation.
Ingredients
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced small
- 1/4 cup gluten free flour: any brand gluten free all purpose flour will work, corn starch is another viable substitution but you will only need 2 tablespoons
- 2 cups half & half: you can use whole milk if that’s all you have on hand
- 2 cups chicken broth (there’s some in the fridge that I used yesterday): I use Pacific brand chicken bone broth to add some protein to this soup, but any chicken stock or broth works
- 3 cups broccoli, chopped into bite size pieces: use a veggie chopper or buy broccoli rice to get the broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Giving the broccoli a quick spin in the food processor will get it to the right size as well (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)
- 1 cup shredded carrots: you can shred them yourself or buy them pre shredded
- 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese: mild cheddar cheese works too
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 teaspoons salt (may need to add more after you taste)
Directions
- Sauté Butter and Onion:
- In the largest pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté until translucent.
- Whisk in Flour:
- Stir in gluten free flour using a flat whisk, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Liquids:
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and half-and-half, creating a creamy base.
- Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Add Vegetables:
- Introduce chopped broccoli and pre-cut carrots to the pot.
- Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 30-45 minutes. The longer, the better, as flavors meld.
- Cheese Infusion:
- Sprinkle in grated sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed, according to your preference.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Allow the soup to simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for an additional 30-45 minutes. This enhances the soup’s depth of flavor. You could also make this soup ahead of time and add it to a crockpot to stay warm until you’re ready to serve it
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the gluten-free Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Meal Prep and Storage
Prepare a batch of this hearty soup for meal prep and freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bags. I like using freezer bags and storing them flat because they thaw quicker. The flavors meld and intensify over time, making it an ideal make-ahead option for busy days. Reheat the soup on low heat when ready to enjoy, savoring the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Soup season is synonymous with warmth, comfort, and indulgence, and the Gluten-Free Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup checks all the boxes. Whether recreating the beloved Panera Bread version or opting for a gluten-free twist, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple on your winter menu. Gather your simple ingredients, follow the easy steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of homemade goodness that will have your family craving more. On a cold winter day, nothing beats the satisfaction of a delicious, gluten-free soup that brings loved ones together in a heartwarming culinary experience.
More Gluten Free Soup Recipes
Healthy Dairy Free Slow Cooker Zuppa Toscana
Low Carb Chicken Tortilla Soup
Gluten Free Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1/2 medium onion diced small
- 1/4 cup gluten free flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 3 cups broccoli pulse in food processor so it's tiny
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 teaspoons salt may need to add more after you taste
Instructions
- Add the butter and onion to the bottom of the biggest pot and sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the flour using a flat whisk.
- Then whisk in the chicken broth and half n half.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Stir in the broccoli and carrots and reduce heat to low and simmer with lid on, stirring occasionally for about 30-45 minutes or longer. The longer the better with soup!
Nutrition
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