Hearty Cheese Soup by Panera Bread Recipe

Name: Hearty Cheese Soup by Panera Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons butter; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery ribs, chopped; 12 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 cup mushroom, chopped; ½ cup cooked ham or ½ cup cooked bacon; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 cups milk; ½ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon ground mustard; 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese; salt; ground pepper; bread, bowls (optional)

Servings: persons

5 tablespoons butter
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 celery ribs, chopped
12 green bell pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1 cup mushroom, chopped
½ cup cooked ham or ½ cup cooked bacon
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups milk
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon ground mustard
1 lb sharp cheddar cheese
salt
ground pepper
bread, bowls (optional)

1
In a large stockpot, melt butter or margarine.
2
Add chopped veggies and ham or bacon and cook over medium heat until veggies are slightly tender, about 10 minutes.
3
Stir in flour and cornstarch.
4
Cook, stirring constantly, about 3 minutes.
5
Add broth and continue stirring until slightly thickened.
6
Add milk and spices.
7
Add cheese gradually, stirring until cheese is melted.
8
To avoid curdling, do not allow soup to boil after cheese is added.
9
Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve, piping hot in a hollowed Sourdough bread bowl.

1513

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

129

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 18 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 5 tablespoons butter, 2 medium carrots, chopped, 2 celery ribs, chopped, 12 green bell pepper, chopped, and more.

Yes, Hearty Cheese Soup by Panera Bread falls under the Soups & Stews category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Hearty Cheese Soup by Panera Bread

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions