If you're a fan of Panera's broccoli cheddar soup, you're in for a treat. This copycat recipe allows you to recreate that delicious bowl of goodness right in your own kitchen. In just 40 minutes, you can have a batch of soup that rivals the one from the restaurant.

Let's start with the ingredients. You'll need 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1 small onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves of garlic, minced, 1/4 cup of all - purpose flour, 2 cups of low - sodium chicken broth, 2 cups of whole milk, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets, 1/2 cup of shredded carrots, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

First, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 - 4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The aroma of the onion and garlic will start to fill your kitchen, making you even more excited for the soup.

Next, sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps to create a roux, which will thicken the soup. The roux should have a light golden color and a smooth consistency.

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the liquid heats up, it will start to thicken, and you'll notice a lovely creamy texture developing.

Now, add the chopped broccoli florets, shredded carrots, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15 - 20 minutes, or until the broccoli and carrots are tender. You can check the tenderness by inserting a fork into a piece of broccoli; it should go in easily.

Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy. The cheese will give the soup that rich, cheesy flavor that we all love about Panera's version.

This copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is not only delicious but also very versatile. You can serve it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or a salad. It's perfect for a cozy dinner at home, especially on a cold evening. You can also make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for future meals.

When it comes to presentation, you can sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top of the soup for an extra cheesy touch. You can also add a few broccoli florets or a sprig of parsley for a pop of color.

Making your own copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a great way to save money and enjoy a homemade meal. You have full control over the ingredients, so you can adjust the seasonings according to your taste. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely become a favorite in your household.

So, the next time you're craving that warm, comforting bowl of broccoli cheddar soup, don't head to the restaurant. Instead, gather the ingredients and whip up a batch of this amazing copycat soup. Your taste buds will thank you, and you'll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Moreover, you can experiment with this recipe. For example, you can add some cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor or some cooked chicken for a heartier meal. You can also play around with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to give the soup a unique twist.

In conclusion, this copycat Panera broccoli cheddar soup is a must - try recipe. It combines the flavors of broccoli, carrots, and cheddar cheese in a creamy and delicious way. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can have a restaurant - quality soup right at home. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking!