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Creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Crockpot Recipe Easy and Perfect

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A rich and creamy broccoli cheddar soup made in the crockpot, mimicking the famous Panera recipe. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients and perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%; almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend/cornstarch slurry for gluten-free)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets, dice carrots, finely chop onion, and mince garlic.
  2. In a medium pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and carrots and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the softened veggies and stir constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flavor; mixture will thicken slightly.
  4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps. Bring to a simmer on stovetop for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to thicken slightly.
  5. Pour the veggie and liquid mixture into the crockpot. Add broccoli florets, cover, and cook on low for 3-4 hours until broccoli is tender but not mushy.
  6. Use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup in the crockpot for a creamy texture while keeping some broccoli chunks.
  7. Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or cayenne. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Let soup cook on low for another 15-20 minutes with lid off to thicken and develop flavor.
  9. Ladle into bowls and serve warm, optionally with crusty bread or fresh salad.

Notes

Sautéing onions and carrots before slow cooking enhances flavor. Blend half the soup for creamy texture without pureeing completely. Use freshly shredded cheddar to avoid grainy texture. Stir cheese in off heat to prevent clumping. Adjust thickness by adding milk or broth if too thick, or simmer uncovered longer if too thin. Stir occasionally during last hour to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: broccoli cheddar soup, crockpot soup, Panera copycat, creamy soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food, slow cooker soup

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/creamy-copycat-panera-broccoli-cheddar-soup-crockpot-recipe-easy-and-perfect/