Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup {Panera Copycat}

If you love Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup, wait until you try this Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup. This simple Panera Copycat soup is just like the original but healthier.

Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup {Panera Copycat}

I could eat Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup every day. However, I needed a healthier version so I made this healthy broccoli cheddar soup.

If you love Panera Bread soups, you will also love Copycat Panera Autumn Squash Soup

How do I Make This Cheesy Without Too Many Calories?

While most cheese has a lot of fat and calories to it, when using Velveeta Reduced Fat cheese, you are get the cheesiness that this soup needs but it does not have as many calories.

Do I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli?

I am using frozen broccoli to make this Copycat Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup. That is because frozen is usually cheaper, has the same quality and it can be kept on hand for whenever I want it.

You can use fresh broccoli if that is what you prefer. The cook time might vary when you use fresh broccoli.

What is a Substitute for Velvetta

If you do not like to use Velvetta or live in a place where you can not get Velvetta there are other cheeses that you can use. Two great substitute cheeses for Velvetta are American cheese and Gouda. Both of these cheeses melt well, making them a perfect replacement for Velvetta in dishes like this soup, as well as macaroni and cheese, or quesadillasAnother option is to use a blend of cheddar and cream cheese. This combination will provide the same smooth, creamy texture that you would get from Velvetta. You can also adjust the ratios of cheddar and cream cheese to get the desired flavor and consistency for your recipe.

No matter which cheese you use as a substitute for Velvetta, remember to melt it slowly on low heat in order to preserve its creamy texture. This will help ensure that your recipes come out just as delicious as if you had used Velvetta.

How do I Serve Broccoli Cheese Soup?

I like to serve broccoli cheese soup with crusty bread. When I am trying to save on come of the calories and points, I like to make 2 ingredient dough bread sticks.

Always serve Broccoli Cheese Soup warmed. This should not be served as a cold soup.

Tips for Reheating Cream Soups

Whenever I make cream soups, I like to reheat the soup on the stove. While it can be reheated in the microwave, I find that the soup will often break when it is heated like that.

How Many Weight Watchers Points in This Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup Copycat

My aim is to make this soup as low in points as possible but still make it taste amazing. This soup tastes amazing and comes in low in points.

• Blue– 2 Points
• Purple– 2 Points
• Green– 2 Points

Have you joined our Weight Watchers Facebook Group? Free recipes and support. Perfect for everyone!

Ingredients in Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Soup {Panera Copycat}

Get the full list of ingredients, with measurements, and step-by-step instructions at the bottom of the post in the printable recipe card.

• Chicken broth
• Frozen broccoli
• Rotel brand tomatoes and green chilies
• Red pepper
• Velveeta reduced fat cheese

How To Make Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

In a large stock pot, add the broccoli, Rotel and peppers in the pot with the chicken broth.

Simmer it all together until the vegetables are tender.

Cut the Velveeta into small cubes and add it to the soup.

Continue to simmer the soup until the cheese is melted.

You can use an immersion blender to smooth the soup if desired.

More Healthy Recipes

• The Best Healthy Homemade Pop Tarts
• Healthy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pocket
• Healthy Fruit Dip
• The Best Healthy Green Bean Casserole
• Healthy Apple Pie
• Buffalo Chicken Taquitos
• Frozen Pork Chops Instant Pot

Need more ideas and help to stay on track with Weight Watchers?

Save Money on Weight Watchers- Get a Year for the Price of a Month – Everything You Need to Know About iTrackBites – Use Code Coach_DebiMurray to save

• Get this Printable Weight Watchers Weight Loss Journal or the Daily Food Log to add to your existing planner.
• Don’t let the holidays get your off track. Get your copy of How to Survive a Low Point Holiday.
• If you are looking for a simple snack idea that won’t ruin your points for the day. You have to try Built Bar. You can save 12% Off* with Code: SAVE12.
• Use these Meal Prep containers so you have meals ready that are low in points and help you avoid the wrong foods. You can also use the Weight Watchers Freestyle Make It and Take It Kit.
• Make sure you are drinking enough water with a reusable water bottle that helps you track your water. I have these 2 and they work great. Hydr-8 Purple 32ounce Water Bottle with Swivel Lid and 32 oz Clear Sports Water Bottle, Best for Measuring H2o Intake
• If you don’t want to pay for the app to be able to calculate your points, consider the Weight Watchers SmartPoints Calculator for Freestyle Program which is sold by Weight Watchers so you know the Points are right. The online calculators are not always accurate.
• Need to start an Exercise Program? Try this Weight Watchers 15 minute Boot Camp DVD.