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Instant Pot Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe

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4.2 from 51 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This copycat Instant Pot Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a creamy, comforting soup perfect for chilly days. Made in the Instant Pot, it combines tender broccoli, sweet carrots, sautéed onions and celery, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smooth, creamy base. The soup is thickened with a buttery flour roux and enriched with warm milk, delivering a rich and velvety texture that rivals the original Panera favorite. A convenient and delicious one-pot meal that can be easily whipped up for family dinners or casual lunches.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 3 cups broccoli, chopped
  • 1 cup carrots, matchsticks or chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Dairy

  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup butter (for roux)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)

Thickening & Seasoning

  • ½ cup flour (or cornstarch as substitute)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients needed for the soup to streamline the cooking process.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
  3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
  4. Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the chopped broccoli and carrots to the pot, stirring slightly to combine.
  5. Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is sealed. Set to pressure cook on high for 2 minutes to cook the vegetables quickly while preserving nutrients and flavor.
  6. Release Pressure: Once done, manually release the pressure using the valve until the steam dissipates and the lid can be opened safely.
  7. Make Roux: While the vegetables cook, melt ½ cup butter in a small pot or microwave-safe bowl. Gradually whisk in the flour until a smooth, creamy mixture forms, then set aside.
  8. Thicken Soup Base: Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté. Take about 1 cup of hot broth from the pot and whisk it into the roux mixture to temper it, then stir this combined mixture back into the Instant Pot. Continually stir until the soup thickens slightly.
  9. Add Warm Milk: Warm the milk on the stove or in the microwave until very warm but not boiling to prevent curdling. Slowly pour the warm milk into the Instant Pot while stirring frequently to combine with the thickened soup base.
  10. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Blend Soup (Optional): For a smoother texture similar to Panera, transfer half of the soup to a blender and pulse a few times, or use an immersion blender or potato masher directly in the pot to break up larger broccoli pieces. This step can be skipped if short on time.
  12. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with small broccoli florets, extra cheese, or black pepper. Enjoy with bread or in a bread bowl for the classic Panera experience.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy and cheese content, which can separate upon thawing.
  • Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent curdling or sticking.
  • Use matchstick or thinly sliced carrots to ensure they cook evenly and soften during pressure cooking.
  • For a low-sodium version, omit added salt and use low-sodium chicken broth.
  • For presentation, blanch or steam small broccoli florets and add as garnish with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and cracked black pepper.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://patriciarecipes.com/instant-pot-copycat-panera-broccoli-cheddar-soup-recipe/