Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss
Indulge in a bowl of our Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss, a delightful twist on the beloved Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup. This soul-soothing soup combines tender, frozen broccoli and vibrant carrots enveloped in a velvety, cheesy broth. Whether you're enjoying it on a chilly afternoon or sharing it with friends over freshly baked bread bowls, this dish promises comfort in every sip. The rich blend of Velveeta and cheddar cheese elevates the flavor, while the low sodium chicken broth keeps it heart-healthy. Perfect for pairing with popovers or warm, buttery rolls, this soup is sure to become a household favorite. Quick to prepare and easier to love, you'll want to savor it again and again!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 tablespoons (Melted)
Flour
2 tablespoons (All-purpose)
Yellow or White Onions
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Half-and-Half
1 cup (Liquid)
Low Sodium Chicken Broth
2 (14.5 ounce) cans (Liquid)
Frozen Chopped Broccoli
1 (16 ounce) package (Frozen)
Carrots
1 cup (Julienne cut or shredded)
Velveeta Cheese
1 lb (Cubed)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
8 ounces (Shredded)
Salt
to taste (Seasoning)
Pepper
to taste (Seasoning)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the flour and chopped onions, stirring frequently for about a minute until the mixture is slightly golden.
2
Gradually pour in the half-and-half, starting with a quarter and whisking until fully combined and thickened. Continue adding the half-and-half slowly while whisking to avoid lumps.
3
Incorporate the frozen broccoli and Velveeta cheese into the saucepan. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the broccoli is well combined with the creamy base.
4
Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth and consistent texture.
5
Add the julienne-cut carrots and allow the soup to simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6
During the final 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the soup.
7
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once all the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy, ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss?
It is a rich, soul-soothing soup that provides a delightful twist on the classic Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, featuring tender broccoli and carrots in a velvety cheese broth.
Is this recipe similar to Panera's Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Yes, this recipe is specifically designed as a copycat or twist on the beloved Panera version.
What kind of broccoli should I use?
This recipe calls for one 16-ounce package of frozen chopped broccoli.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
While the recipe specifies frozen chopped broccoli for convenience, you can use fresh broccoli, though cooking times may vary slightly to reach the desired tenderness.
What cheeses are used in this soup?
This recipe uses a combination of 1 pound of cubed Velveeta cheese and 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese.
What type of broth is recommended?
The recipe suggests using two 14.5-ounce cans of low sodium chicken broth.
How do I make the soup base thick?
The thickness is created by making a roux with melted butter, flour, and onions, then gradually whisking in half-and-half.
What kind of onions are best for this recipe?
You can use either yellow or white onions, finely chopped.
How should the carrots be prepared?
The carrots should be julienne cut or shredded before being added to the soup.
How do I prevent lumps in the creamy base?
Gradually pour in the half-and-half, starting with a quarter cup and whisking continuously until fully combined and thickened.
When do I add the Velveeta cheese?
Incorporate the cubed Velveeta cheese along with the frozen broccoli after the half-and-half mixture has thickened.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer on medium heat for approximately 20 minutes after adding the carrots.
When should the shredded cheddar be added?
The shredded cheddar cheese should be stirred in during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal because it is primarily prepared in a single large saucepan.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This soup pairs perfectly with popovers, warm buttery rolls, or served inside freshly baked bread bowls.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total, including seasonings like salt and pepper.
Is this soup vegetarian-friendly?
The tags list it as vegetarian; however, the recipe calls for chicken broth. To make it strictly vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
What is the purpose of the flour in the recipe?
The flour acts as a thickening agent when combined with butter and heat to form a roux.
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream for a richer flavor, or milk for a lighter version, though the consistency will change.
How do I season the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Bliss?
Season with salt and pepper to taste at the very end of the cooking process.
Is this recipe easy to make for families?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy, family-friendly recipe that is quick to prepare.
What heat setting should I use for melting the butter?
The butter should be melted in a large saucepan over medium heat.
How much Velveeta is needed?
The recipe requires 1 pound of Velveeta cheese, cubed for easier melting.
Can I add the chicken broth all at once?
It is recommended to pour in the broth one cup at a time, stirring continuously to maintain a smooth texture.
What should the texture of the onions be?
The onions should be sautéed with butter and flour until the mixture is slightly golden and the onions are softened.
Does this soup contain fiber?
Yes, the inclusion of broccoli and carrots provides dietary fiber.
Can I use shredded carrots from the store?
Yes, store-bought shredded carrots work perfectly for the julienne cut required in this recipe.
What happens if the soup is too thick?
If the soup is thicker than you prefer, you can stir in a little extra chicken broth or half-and-half to reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe good for cold weather?
Absolutely, it is described as a soul-soothing comfort food perfect for chilly afternoons.
How should the soup be served?
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately while the cheese is melted and creamy.