
We usually think of comfort food, especially soup, during the cooler months of the year. But, this particular soup greatly benefits from the vegetables being fresh from the farm. A new carrot, just pulled from the ground, is a totally different taste and texture than one that is harvested and then stored. Same with broccoli! So, when the window to great produce opens up this time of year, this is a great recipe to break out to use up the glorious harvest.
The Panera company makes great soups, and IMHO, this broccoli cheddar is the best one! Carla over at Adventures of a Nurse has great recipes, and this is hers. I have tweaked it a bit, because I cannot help it but this is basically her recipe and it is delicious and true to the Panera taste.
Use an immersion blender to get the texture right once the veggies have been cooked. I did that step before adding the milk, just to cool the pot down a bit so the milk did not curdle. I used a local dairy whole milk, but you could easily sub in a coconut milk, too. Almond milk is the wrong flavor and consistency for this soup so avoid that.
Add a crusty baguette or serve in bread bowls and everyone at the table will be very happy – a summer comfort soup!
Panera Copycat Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
Yum! Panera Bread Copycat Broccoli and Cheddar Soup in the Instant Pot!
Posted by Quick and Carry on Friday, August 10, 2018

Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Cook Time | 15 minutes |
Passive Time | 10 minutes |
Servings |
people
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- 1 1/2 pounds broccoli chopped
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 box chicken stock 4 cups
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups milk or cream could use coconut milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- salt and pepper to taste
Ingredients
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- Place the broth, veggies and nutmeg in the liner of the Instant Pot. Lock on the lid and set the toggle to sealing. Set manual/pressure cook to 15 minutes.
- Do a quick release and stir in the milk or cream. Blend with immersion blender for just a few seconds to break up any large veggies.
- Set the pot to sauté, but do not let the soup come to a boil. Add the cheese and stir well. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve with bread or in a bread bowl. Keeps well but you probably won't have many leftovers!
By Krystn Madrine -, thanks a lot for the post.Really thank you! Much obliged.