Make your own Panera at home

Welcome to the delicious world of homemade Panera! If you love the cozy, comforting food from Panera Bread, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re making a classic meal that combines rich flavors and fresh ingredients: Broccoli Cheddar Soup paired with a refreshing Fuji Apple Salad. This recipe is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to make right in your own kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Panera at home gives you the chance to enjoy your favorite flavors without leaving the house. It’s simple, satisfying, and allows you to control what goes into your meal. With fresh ingredients and creamy soups, you can serve up a wholesome dish that feels just like a restaurant experience. Plus, cooking at home can save you money!

How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Fuji Apple Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter
• 1 cup finely chopped sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 3 1/2 cups fresh shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese (+ 1/4 cup for optional garnish)
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
• 1 (11-ounce) package of spring salad mix, washed and dried
• 2 1/2 cups of sliced rotisserie chicken
• 1 (2.5-ounce) bag of apple chips
• 1 (5-ounce) package of crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
• 1/2 cup of shaved parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups of halved grape tomatoes
• 1 cup of pecan halves
• 1 cup of thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup of dried sweetened cranberries
• Panera Fuji apple vinaigrette dressing

Directions:

1. For the Broccoli and Cheese Soup:

   • Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine.
   • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk and heavy cream.
   • Bring to a simmer.
   • Add the broccoli florets and cook until tender.
   • Stir in the cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted.
   • Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

2. For the Fuji Apple Salad:

   • In a large bowl, combine the spring salad mix, sliced rotisserie chicken, apple chips, Gorgonzola cheese, shaved parmesan (if using), grape tomatoes, pecans, red onion, and dried cranberries.
   • Drizzle with the Panera Fuji apple vinaigrette dressing just before serving and toss gently to combine.

How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Fuji Apple Salad

Serve the warm broccoli cheddar soup in bowls and garnish with extra cheddar cheese if desired. Plate the Fuji Apple Salad on the side, and enjoy a balanced meal that warms your heart.

How to Store Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Fuji Apple Salad

Store any leftover broccoli cheddar soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove until warmed through. The Fuji Apple Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep it in the fridge for up to a day. Just be sure not to add the vinaigrette until you’re ready to serve.

Tips to Make Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Fuji Apple Salad

• For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup and then stir it back in.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Feel free to toss in some other vegetables into the soup, like carrots or cauliflower.
• Customize your salad by adding more crunchy ingredients like nuts or seeds.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, try adding cooked bacon or ham to the soup for extra flavor. You can also replace the Gorgonzola cheese in the salad with feta or goat cheese for a different taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli for the soup?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli! Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the soup.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use more milk or a mix of milk and half-and-half to keep the creaminess.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omitting any chicken from the salad.