Are you a fan of Panera Bread’s delicious soups? From comforting classics to innovative flavor combinations, Panera’s menu offers something for everyone. And who can resist their creamy, dreamy soups that are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly? In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering Panera soup recipes that you can easily recreate at home. From the comforting familiarity of Broccoli Cheddar Soup to the exotic spice of Thai Coconut Curry Soup, these recipes will transport you straight to the cozy atmosphere of a Panera Bread cafe.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and new, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron, heat up your kitchen, and get ready to indulge in these creamy, dreamy soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of cheddar cheese with the health benefits of broccoli. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add broccoli, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture.
4. Stir in heavy cream and 1/2 cup cheddar cheese until smooth.
5. Add remaining cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Soup
This classic soup recipe combines fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a hint of creaminess to create a deliciously comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and dried basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a staple for any occasion, perfect for when you need a warm and soothing meal. Made with tender chicken, soft noodles, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of uncooked egg noodles
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Add the noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Potato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy baked potato soup, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the rich flavors of roasted potatoes, onions, and garlic with a hint of cream and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large baking potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the potatoes, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in roasted potato mixture, cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
French Onion Soup
Savor the rich flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese in this classic French Onion Soup recipe.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized (25-30 minutes).
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls.
3. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slice, then sprinkle Gruyère cheese evenly.
4. Place bowls under broiler for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious vegetable soup recipe, packed with a variety of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: other vegetables of your choice (e.g., potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed wild rice (such as brown, white, and red)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the mixed wild rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Add the cooked chicken (shredded or diced) and stir to combine.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Bisque
Transforming succulent lobster into a creamy, flavorful bisque is an art form that’s sure to impress. This recipe yields a luxurious soup perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add lobster meat, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Chili
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful turkey chili recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day. Made with lean ground turkey, tender beans, and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southwest Tortilla Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the bold flavors of the Southwest with tender tortillas and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Add tortilla strips and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to break down.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Autumn Squash Soup
As the seasons change, warm up with a comforting bowl of Autumn Squash Soup. This recipe celebrates the flavors of the season, featuring roasted butternut squash, aromatic spices, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or sage) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted squash, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
8. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Clam Chowder
This classic New England-style clam chowder recipe combines tender clams with a rich and creamy broth, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 cups diced potatoes (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add clams, clam juice, heavy cream, whole milk, and potatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Minestrone Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Minestrone Soup, packed with tender vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. This Italian-inspired soup is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, and basil.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, with the richness of coconut milk balanced by the warmth of curry spices. Perfect for a quick and comforting meal, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Soup
Savor the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers in this creamy soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and seasoning with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into pieces.
4. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add the roasted red pepper, diced tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Black Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of Latin American cuisine, packed with protein-rich black beans and aromatic spices. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until softened.
2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, made with simple ingredients and minimal fuss. The perfect remedy for a chilly day!
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots and grated ginger in a little bit of oil until they’re tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
4. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Corn Chowder
This comforting chowder is a perfect blend of sweet corn, tender potatoes, and savory spices. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the milk and stir until the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Mushroom Soup
Celebrate the earthy flavors of autumn with this hearty wild mushroom soup. Rich and creamy, it’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add broth, whisking constantly. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Soup
A rich and flavorful soup that combines the natural sweetness of artichokes with the earthy taste of spinach, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the artichoke hearts and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 creamy Panera-inspired soup recipes! From comforting classics like Broccoli Cheddar and Chicken Noodle, to more adventurous options like Thai Coconut Curry and Lobster Bisque, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty, cheesy bowl or a lighter, vegetarian option, these soups are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and cozy up with these delicious and creamy soup recipes!