There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup-the creamy texture, the rich, cheesy flavor, and the vibrant green broccoli all coming together in perfect harmony.But what if you’re craving that iconic taste while keeping things plant-based? Good news: you don’t have to miss out. In this article, we’ll guide you through a deliciously satisfying vegan twist on the beloved Panera classic.By swapping dairy for wholesome, plant-powered ingredients, you can recreate that luscious, cozy soup right in your own kitchen-no compromises, just pure, comforting goodness. Ready to cozy up with a bowl of dairy-free delight? Let’s dive in!
How to make copycat Panera vegan broccoli cheddar soup begins with gathering the freshest, most flavorful plant-based ingredients to recreate that beloved creamy texture and irresistible cheesy taste without dairy.This soup is a vegan comfort food marvel,perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a rich,warming bowl packed with vibrant broccoli and luscious,melty vegan cheddar.
prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous bowls
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – perfect for both vegan beginners and seasoned home cooks
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 3 cups unsweetened unsalted almond milk (or your preferred plant-based milk)
- 2 cups vegetable broth, low-sodium
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp vegan cheddar cheese (preferably one that melts well, like Follow Your Heart or Violife)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (for subtle cheesiness and umami depth)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (for brightness and balance)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the vegan butter.Add the diced onion and grated carrot, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour over the veggies and stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. This will thicken your soup while keeping it silky smooth.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the almond milk and vegetable broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it slightly thickens,around 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
- Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, purée about half of the soup for a luscious, creamy texture with little pockets of whole broccoli remaining for delightful bites. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth; then return it to the pot.
- Add Broccoli and seasonings: Stir in the broccoli florets, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Melt in the vegan Cheddar: Reduce the heat to low and gradually fold in the shredded vegan cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and integrated. Avoid boiling at this stage to prevent cheese clumping.
- Brighten and Adjust: Finish by squeezing in the fresh lemon juice and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt, pepper, or a pinch of more paprika to replicate Panera’s signature bold flavor.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right vegan cheddar: Opt for a vegan cheese with excellent melting properties to capture that creamy, gooey Panera vibe. Brands like Violife or Miyoko’s are favorites.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze-friendly: Freeze leftovers in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and gently reheat on the stove with a splash of plant milk to revive creaminess.
- Boost umami: If you want more depth, add a dash of soy sauce or miso paste when adding the broth.
- Broccoli texture: Avoid overcooking to keep that perfect bite – al dente broccoli adds contrast and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your vegan broccoli cheddar soup in rustic bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives or crispy smoked paprika for color and extra flavor.Accompany with crusty baguette slices or vegan grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal. A drizzle of truffle oil or a small dollop of cashew cream also elevates the presentation and taste beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
Internal Link: For more vegan comfort food recipes, explore our collection of vegan soup recipes.
external Reference: Learn about the nutritional benefits of broccoli from ChooseMyPlate.gov.
Q&A
Q&A: How to Make Copycat Panera Vegan Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Q1: what makes Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup so irresistible?
A1: It’s all about the creamy texture, the sharp cheddar flavor, and the perfect balance between tender broccoli and velvety soup. The comforting richness paired with a hint of savory depth keeps you reaching spoon after spoon.
Q2: Can you really make a vegan version that tastes like the original?
A2: Absolutely! By swapping out dairy for plant-based alternatives and using nutritional yeast or vegan cheese to mimic cheddar’s tang, you can recreate that luscious, cheesy vibe without any animal products. It’s surprisingly close and incredibly satisfying.
Q3: What are the key ingredients in a copycat vegan Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
A3: The magic starts with fresh broccoli, a hearty vegetable broth base, creamy cashew or coconut milk, sautéed onions and garlic for depth, and nutritional yeast or a good vegan cheddar cheese substitute for that cheesy punch. A dash of mustard and a sprinkle of smoked paprika elevate the flavor even more.
Q4: How do you get the soup to be creamy without cream?
A4: Soaking raw cashews and blending them into the soup is a classic trick for silky texture. Alternatively, canned coconut milk works wonders, adding richness and body without heaviness.Both create that indulgent feel you crave.
Q5: Is the soup thick or should it be more brothy?
A5: The original Panera soup has a medium-thick consistency-not too heavy but definitely creamy enough to coat your spoon. For the vegan version, thickening with blended cashews, pureed broccoli, or a touch of flour or cornstarch helps achieve that perfect balance.
Q6: How long does it take to make this soup at home?
A6: From start to finish, expect about 30 to 40 minutes. Most of the time is spent chopping, sautéing, and letting the soup simmer so the flavors meld. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or batch cooking to enjoy throughout the week.
Q7: Can I freeze leftovers? Will it still taste good?
A7: Definitely! This soup freezes beautifully.Just store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, stir gently to recombine any separation. It makes an excellent make-ahead lunch or quick dinner solution.Q8: Any tips to customize the flavor or texture?
A8: For extra punch, add a splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar. Want it spicier? A pinch of cayenne adds warmth without overpowering. For chunkier soup, reserve some broccoli florets after pureeing and stir them back in at the end.
Q9: What do I serve with copycat Panera vegan broccoli cheddar soup?
A9: Think crusty bread or a warm, buttery vegan biscuit to dip and soak up every drop. A crisp green salad balances the creaminess, making it a complete, comforting meal.
Q10: why try making this soup at home instead of buying it?
A10: Aside from saving money, making it yourself means you control every ingredient-no preservatives, less sodium, and fully vegan and allergen-friendly. plus, the pride of replicating a beloved dish just can’t be beat!
In Summary
Whipping up this copycat Panera vegan broccoli cheddar soup isn’t just about recreating a beloved classic-it’s about savoring a bowl of comfort that fits seamlessly into a plant-based lifestyle. With every creamy, cheesy spoonful, you’re proving that compassionate cooking can be just as indulgent and satisfying as the original. So next time the craving hits, skip the line and dive into your homemade masterpiece, knowing you’ve crafted a appetizing, nourishing soup that’s truly your own.Happy cooking-and even happier slurping!
