Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Bread copycat!)

bowl of broccoli cheddar soup with a spoon in it.

4.67 from 57 votes

Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Panera Bread copycat!)

Slow cooker broccoli cheddar soup is a Panera bread copycat but I'm going to say it's even better! It’s rich and cheesy, loaded with tender broccoli, celery, and carrots in a flavorful broth. This creamy soup will be the best part of your day!

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5 15

Servings servings

Author Melissa Williams

Equipment

Slow Cooker

Ingredients

1 small onion chopped
4 cups fresh broccoli chopped
1 cup matchstick carrots
1 stalk celery sliced thin
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cups chicken stock
¼ cup butter melted
¼ cup all purpose flour
2 cups milk I use 2%
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 teaspoon ranch seasoning optional
scallions for garnish

Instructions

To the basin of a 6-8 quart slow cooker, add the chopped onion, broccoli, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, and chicken stock.
1 small onion, 4 cups fresh broccoli, 1 cup matchstick carrots, 1 stalk celery, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 4 cups chicken stock
Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
After the set cook time, to a small microwave safe bowl, melt the butter and then whisk in the flour.
¼ cup butter, ¼ cup all purpose flour
Pour the butter mixture into the slow cooker.
Stir in the milk and shredded cheese.
2 cups milk, 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese
Replace cover and cook another hour or until the cheese is melted.
1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
Stir until smooth and then serve.
scallions

Notes

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
The soup will freeze well. Cool, move to freezer safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
You can use frozen broccoli in place of fresh.
If you prefer a thicker soup, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch into ¼ cup of water and stirring that into the soup.
To serve, garnish with scallions, more shredded cheese, crackers, or serve in a bread bowl.
One teaspoon of ranch seasoning can be added at the end of the cook time for additional flavor.

Every slow cooker runs differently. Times given are a general recommendation and should be tested in your own slow cooker and adjusted as needed.

Nutrition