Cozy Slow Cooker Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Copycat). Imagine creamy goodness infused with rich cheddar, tender broccoli, and just a hint of nutmeg wafting through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. This soup doesn’t just fill your belly; it wraps you in comfort like your favorite old sweater.

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Now, picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon, and you’re snuggled on the couch, wearing those questionable fuzzy socks. Suddenly, that familiar craving for something cozy hits you. You could whip up this delightful soup in your slow cooker, letting it bubble away while you enjoy some quality TV time or even a good book. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.

I remember the first time I made this soup. My kids gathered around the table, eyes wide with excitement as they dipped their bread into the creamy goodness. Their delighted reactions still echo in my mind every time I pull out the slow cooker.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Broccoli: Choose bright green florets for optimal flavor and nutrition; frozen works but lacks that fresh crunch.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Opt for high-quality cheese; it melts beautifully and gives that rich flavor we all crave.

• Heavy Cream: This is key for creaminess; feel free to substitute half-and-half if you’re watching calories.

• Onion: A medium yellow onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for extra depth.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates flavors dramatically; mince them finely to release their aromatic oils.

• Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought works well; use low-sodium to control saltiness.

• Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances flavors subtly without being overpowering; it’s the secret weapon here!

• Carrots: Dice them small to cook evenly and add sweetness to balance the broccoli’s earthiness.

• Cornstarch or Flour : This helps thicken the soup; mix with cold water before adding it to avoid lumps.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Those Veggies!: Start by washing and chopping your fresh broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Dice those carrots and onions too! The more colorful your vegetables are, the happier your soup will be.

Sauté for Flavor!: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil before tossing in onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about 3-5 minutes—this adds depth!

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker!: Transfer your sautéed veggies into a slow cooker along with broccoli, carrots, vegetable broth, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir together so those flavors can mingle beautifully.

Time for Simmering!: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4 hours or high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is tender and aromatic enough to make you swoon.

Thicken It Up!: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water until smooth, then stir into your soup. Let it cook uncovered until thickened—this creates that luscious texture we love!

Add Cheese (The Best Part!): Once thickened, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Taste-test for seasoning adjustments because no one likes bland soup!

Enjoying this Slow Cooker Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Copycat) is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about indulging in comfort food made easy! So grab a spoon (and maybe some crusty bread), sit back and let each velvety bite remind you why this recipe has earned its place on your dinner rotation!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for flavor, then add broccoli and cheese later for creaminess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cheddar for gouda or add some cooked chicken for extra protein!

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve creaminess.

There’s nothing quite like the first taste of this soup on a chilly evening. My friends couldn’t stop raving about it at dinner last week; they even asked for seconds—which is always a compliment!

FAQ

How long does this soup take to cook in a slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until broccoli is tender.

Can I freeze leftovers of the soup?

Yes, freeze in portions but be aware it may change texture after thawing.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Slow Cooker Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Copycat)

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• Author: homerecipeseasy
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x

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Description

Slow Cooker Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Copycat) is the ultimate comfort food that warms your soul on chilly days. This creamy, rich soup features tender broccoli, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of nutmeg, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Perfect for busy families, this easy recipe requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. Enjoy it alone or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water

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Instructions

1. 1. Prep the vegetables: Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized pieces; dice the carrots and onion.
2. 2. Sauté aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
3. 3. Combine ingredients: Transfer the sautéed mixture to a slow cooker and add broccoli, carrots, vegetable broth, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. 4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the vegetables are tender.
5. 5. Thicken: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the soup.
6. 6. Add cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Soup
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding cooked chicken or swapping out cheddar for gouda. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove.