The Best Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup. A simple and easy make ahead freezer meal idea. Perfect for Double Dinners. Make in a Crockpot or Instant Pot
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions, and saute until tender.
Add the flour to the melted butter and onions. Whisk to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to burn.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half cream. Let mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes stirring often.
Next, lower the heat to medium-low and add the frozen chopped broccoli and carrots.
Bring mixture back to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve half of the soup with warm bread.
With the second half of the soup: Allow to cool slightly before spooning into a freezer safe container. Write the following instructions:
Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup
__/__/__ (Date)
*Thaw Overnight in the Fridge
*Reheat in Crockpot, on Stove, or in Microwave
*May need to add splash of milk or chicken broth if soup becomes to thick
Place prepared container in the freezer for a meal at a later time.