Copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup recipe

It’s a chilly evening, the kind where a warm bowl of soup is the only thing that sounds remotely appealing. My family and I are big fans of Panera Bread, especially their creamy soups. But sometimes, venturing out isn’t an option, and the craving hits hard. That’s when I stumbled upon this copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup recipe, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer! The first time I made it, the aroma alone filled the kitchen with such comforting warmth. The taste? Absolutely divine! Rich, creamy, and with that perfect potato soup flavor we all love, it was an instant hit. Even my picky eaters devoured it, declaring it even better than Panera’s (don’t tell Panera!). Since then, this recipe has become a regular in our household, especially during the colder months. It’s surprisingly easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and truly captures the essence of that beloved Panera soup. If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and family-approved meal, you absolutely must try this copycat recipe. Get ready to experience soup bliss!

Ingredients: Your Shopping List for Creamy Potato Perfection

Creating the perfect copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup starts with gathering the right ingredients. This recipe utilizes simple, readily available items that, when combined, transform into a bowl of creamy, dreamy potato soup. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Potatoes: 3 pounds of Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed. Russet potatoes are the workhorses of potato soup. Their high starch content contributes to the creamy texture we’re aiming for. While you can use Yukon Gold for a slightly waxier texture, Russets are truly the best choice for achieving that authentic Panera-like consistency. Make sure to peel them well and cube them into roughly uniform sizes (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure even cooking.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large yellow onion, chopped. Onion forms the aromatic base of our soup. Yellow onions are preferred for their mild, versatile flavor that sweetens as they cook. Dice the onion finely so it cooks down and blends seamlessly into the soup, adding depth without overpowering the potato flavor.
• Celery: 2 stalks of celery, chopped. Celery might seem like a minor ingredient, but it’s crucial for adding a subtle savory note and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile. Chop the celery similarly to the onion, into small pieces, to ensure even cooking and distribution throughout the soup.
• Carrots: 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped. Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color to the soup. Like the onion and celery, chop them finely so they cook through and contribute to the overall flavor without being overly noticeable in texture.
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter. Butter is essential for richness and flavor. It’s used to sauté the vegetables and create a flavorful base for the soup. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content of the final dish.
• All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup all-purpose flour. Flour is the thickening agent for our creamy soup. It creates a roux when cooked with butter, which helps to thicken the soup and give it that luscious, velvety texture we’re after. Make sure to cook the roux properly to avoid any raw flour taste.
• Chicken Broth: 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred). Chicken broth is the liquid base of the soup. It adds flavor and depth. Low sodium broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the final soup. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, though chicken broth lends a more traditional potato soup flavor.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup heavy cream. Heavy cream is what truly elevates this soup to the next level of creaminess. It adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel. Don’t substitute with milk or half-and-half if you want that signature Panera creaminess; heavy cream is key.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces cream cheese, softened. Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that sets this copycat recipe apart. It adds tanginess and a distinct creaminess that mimics Panera’s soup perfectly. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier incorporation into the soup and to prevent lumps. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
• Milk: 1 cup milk (whole milk preferred). Milk adds further creaminess and thins the soup to the desired consistency. Whole milk is richer and creamier, but 2% milk can also be used.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference). Cheddar cheese adds a cheesy flavor that complements the potato and cream cheese beautifully. Sharp cheddar will provide a more pronounced cheesy flavor, while mild cheddar will be more subtle. Reserve some extra for topping.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously, but taste as you go, especially when using regular chicken broth, to avoid over-salting. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferable for its brighter flavor.
• Optional Garnishes: Chopped green onions, bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chives. Garnishes are not essential to the recipe but can enhance the presentation and flavor of the soup. They add a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Ingredient Quality Matters:

While this is a relatively simple recipe, using high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste. Opt for fresh, firm vegetables, good quality butter, and flavorful chicken broth. Don’t skimp on the cream cheese or heavy cream if you want that truly decadent, Panera-style experience.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Potatoes: While Russets are recommended, Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a slightly different texture. Avoid red potatoes as they are too waxy for this type of soup.
• Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy: For a slightly lighter version, you could use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the soup will be less rich. Non-dairy milk alternatives can be used, but they may alter the texture and flavor. Nut-based cream cheeses are available for dairy-free versions, but the taste will be different.
• Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby cheese, but cheddar is the most classic and complements the other flavors well.

By gathering these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a truly delicious and comforting copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup that will rival the original!

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Soup Success

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! This copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup recipe is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these step-by-step instructions for soup success:

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Sautéing the vegetables in butter is crucial for building flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow the vegetables to soften and release their aromatic compounds.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is incorporated and the mixture starts to smell slightly nutty. This step creates the roux, which is the base for thickening the soup. Cooking the flour removes the raw flour taste and ensures a smooth, lump-free soup.
3. Add Broth and Potatoes: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Adding the broth gradually while whisking helps to prevent lumps from forming in the roux. Simmering the potatoes in the broth allows them to cook through and release their starch, further contributing to the soup’s creamy texture.
4. Blend for Creaminess (Optional but Recommended): For an extra smooth and creamy soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender (in batches) and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot. Caution: Be careful when blending hot soup. If using a regular blender, vent the lid and blend in small batches to prevent splattering. Blending a portion of the soup is what truly mimics the smooth texture of Panera’s soup. You can blend it all for a completely smooth soup or leave some chunks for a slightly more rustic texture, depending on your preference.
5. Stir in Dairy and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated. Then, stir in the heavy cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheeses are melted and the soup is heated through. Do not boil at this stage, as the dairy can scald or separate at high temperatures. Adding the dairy and cheese at the end preserves their creamy texture and prevents them from curdling.
6. Season to Perfection: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference. Remember to taste and season as you go.
7. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, or chives. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup!

Tips for Success During Cooking:

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not mushy. Overcooked potatoes can become grainy in the soup.
• Low and Slow Simmering: Simmering the soup gently allows the flavors to meld and develop. Avoid boiling vigorously, especially after adding dairy.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the soup at various stages and adjust salt and pepper as needed. You might need more seasoning depending on the salt content of your broth and butter.
• Consistency Control: If the soup is too thick, add a little more milk or broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow it to thicken slightly, or you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

By following these detailed instructions and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a homemade copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup that’s just as delicious, if not better, than the original!

Nutrition Facts: A Bowl of Comfort and Calories

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important, even for comforting dishes like potato soup. Here’s a general overview of the nutrition facts for a serving of this copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup recipe. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 6-8 servings. Serving size is estimated to be about 1.5 cups (350-400ml).

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 450-550 calories
• Total Fat: 30-40g
  • Saturated Fat: 20-25g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: Varies
• Cholesterol: 100-130mg
• Sodium: 500-700mg (can vary greatly depending on broth and cheese used)
• Total Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugars: 5-7g
• Protein: 10-15g

Key Nutritional Components and Considerations:

• Calories and Fat: This soup is relatively calorie-dense and high in fat due to the cream cheese, heavy cream, butter, and cheddar cheese. While these ingredients contribute to the soup’s rich flavor and creamy texture, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are watching your calorie or fat intake.
• Saturated Fat: The high saturated fat content primarily comes from the dairy ingredients. While some saturated fat is necessary for bodily functions, excessive intake can be a concern for heart health for some individuals.
• Sodium: Sodium levels can vary significantly depending on the type of chicken broth and cheese used. Using low-sodium chicken broth and being mindful of salt additions can help reduce the sodium content.
• Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates primarily come from the potatoes and flour. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Protein: The soup provides a moderate amount of protein, mainly from the dairy and cheese.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Dairy products provide calcium and vitamin D. The vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals as well, though in smaller quantities.

Ways to Make it Healthier (Lower Calorie/Fat Options):

• Reduce Heavy Cream: Substitute some or all of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even evaporated milk. This will reduce the fat and calorie content, but will also slightly alter the richness and creaminess.
• Use Less Butter: Reduce the amount of butter used for sautéing, or use olive oil instead.
• Light Cream Cheese: Use reduced-fat cream cheese. This will lower the fat content, but may slightly alter the texture.
• Low-Fat Cheddar Cheese: Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more vegetables like broccoli florets or cauliflower to increase the fiber content and nutrient density while slightly reducing the calorie density per serving.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of serving sizes. Enjoy this delicious soup as part of a balanced meal.

Important Note: These nutrition facts are estimates. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. Always consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

While this copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup is definitely a comforting indulgence, understanding its nutritional profile allows you to make informed choices and enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Bowl in Under an Hour

One of the great things about this copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup recipe is that it’s not only delicious but also relatively quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
  • This includes:
    • Peeling and cubing potatoes (approximately 10-15 minutes)
    • Chopping onion, celery, and carrots (approximately 10 minutes)
    • Softening cream cheese (can be done while prepping vegetables)
    • Gathering and measuring other ingredients
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • This includes:
    • Sautéing vegetables (5-7 minutes)
    • Making the roux and adding broth (2-3 minutes)
    • Simmering potatoes until tender (15-20 minutes)
    • Blending (optional, 2-3 minutes)
    • Melting in dairy and cheese, heating through (5-7 minutes)
• Total Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes

Factors Affecting Preparation Time:

• Vegetable Chopping Speed: Your knife skills and chopping speed will directly impact the prep time. If you are a faster chopper, you can likely reduce the prep time.
• Potato Cubing Size: Larger potato cubes will take longer to cook than smaller cubes. Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes for the estimated cook time.
• Blending: Using an immersion blender directly in the pot is generally faster than transferring soup to a regular blender.
• Ingredient Readiness: Having all your ingredients prepped and measured out before you start cooking (mise en place) will streamline the cooking process and help you stay within the estimated time.

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

• Use a Food Processor (Carefully): A food processor can be used to chop the onions, celery, and carrots quickly. However, be careful not to over-process them into a puree. Pulse in short bursts until they are finely chopped.
• Pre-Chopped Vegetables: While fresh is always best, you can use pre-chopped vegetables (like diced onions or carrots) from the grocery store to save time, especially if you are in a rush.
• Microwave Potatoes (Partially): If you are very short on time, you can partially microwave the cubed potatoes for a few minutes to shorten the simmering time in the soup. However, be careful not to fully cook them in the microwave.
• Efficient Workflow: Organize your workspace and have all your tools and ingredients readily accessible. This will make the prep process more efficient.

Make-Ahead Options:

• Prep Vegetables in Advance: You can chop the vegetables a day ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Soup Base (Without Dairy): You can make the soup base (up to the point of adding the dairy and cheese) ahead of time. Cool it completely, store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to serve, reheat the base and then stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, milk, and cheddar cheese.

Despite being a rich and flavorful soup, this copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup is definitely achievable within an hour, making it a great option for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch. With a little planning and efficient prep, you can have a comforting bowl of homemade soup on the table in no time!

How to Serve: Perfect Pairings for Potato Soup Bliss

Copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup is a delightful dish on its own, but the right pairings can elevate the entire meal and create a truly satisfying dining experience. Here are some delicious and versatile ways to serve this creamy soup:

Bread & Sandwiches:

• Crusty Bread: A classic pairing! Serve with slices of crusty baguette, sourdough, or artisan bread for dipping into the creamy soup. The contrast of textures is wonderful.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The ultimate comfort food duo! A grilled cheese sandwich, especially with sharp cheddar or Gruyere cheese, is a perfect accompaniment. Consider a gourmet grilled cheese with caramelized onions or bacon for an extra special treat.
• Panini: A warm panini, filled with roasted vegetables, ham and cheese, or turkey and Swiss, pairs beautifully with the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds another layer of flavor and warmth to the meal.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun and authentic Panera-style presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls!

Salads:

• Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and croutons is a satisfying and complementary side.
• Apple and Walnut Salad: A salad with apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette adds a touch of sweetness and crunch that balances the savory soup.
• Spinach Salad with Bacon and Eggs: A hearty spinach salad with bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a warm bacon vinaigrette can create a more substantial meal when paired with the soup.

Other Sides:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus provide a healthy and flavorful side dish. Their slight char and sweetness complement the creamy soup.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli are lighter options that still offer a healthy vegetable component.
• Side of Fruit: Fresh fruit like apple slices, grapes, or berries can offer a refreshing palate cleanser after enjoying the rich soup.
• Crackers: Serve with a variety of crackers, such as oyster crackers, saltines, or whole-wheat crackers, for dipping and crunch.

Toppings and Garnishes (Beyond the Basics):

• Crispy Bacon Bits: Bacon bits add a smoky, savory crunch.
• Chopped Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness.
• Shredded Cheese (Variety): Offer a variety of shredded cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
• Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little heat, offer hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add texture and crunch.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkling Everything Bagel seasoning on top adds a savory and flavorful finish.
• Roasted Garlic Cloves: Roasted garlic cloves add a mellow, sweet garlic flavor.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil or Chili Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil or chili oil can add richness and a touch of spice.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: This soup is perfect for a cozy and satisfying weeknight meal.
• Weekend Lunch: Enjoy it as a comforting weekend lunch, especially on a chilly day.
• Casual Gatherings: Serve it at casual gatherings, potlucks, or game nights.
• Holiday Appetizer: In smaller portions, it can be a delicious and warming appetizer for holiday meals or winter gatherings.
• Soup and Sandwich Night: Make it a fun “soup and sandwich night” with a variety of bread and sandwich options.

By considering these serving suggestions and pairings, you can create a complete and enjoyable meal around your delicious copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup, making it a hit with family and friends alike!

Additional Tips: Elevate Your Potato Soup Game

To ensure your copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup is absolutely perfect every time, here are five additional tips to elevate your soup game:

1. Bloom Your Spices (Optional, but Flavorful): While this recipe doesn’t call for many spices, if you decide to add any (like a pinch of nutmeg, thyme, or smoked paprika), consider “blooming” them in the butter along with the vegetables. Blooming spices involves adding them to hot fat (like butter) and cooking them briefly for about 30 seconds to a minute before adding other ingredients. This process helps to release their aromatic oils and intensifies their flavor, adding an extra layer of depth to your soup. Be careful not to burn the spices; cook them just until fragrant.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pot When Sautéing: When sautéing the onions, celery, and carrots, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding can cause the vegetables to steam instead of sauté, which will prevent them from browning properly and developing their full flavor. If your pot is too small, sauté the vegetables in batches. Proper sautéing is crucial for building a flavorful base for the soup.
3. Use Warm Dairy (Optional, but Helps with Smoothness): While not strictly necessary, warming the cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk slightly before adding them to the soup can help them incorporate more smoothly and prevent the soup from cooling down too quickly. You can gently warm them in a separate saucepan or in the microwave for a short time. This is especially helpful if your soup has cooled down a bit after blending.
4. Adjust Consistency to Your Preference: Soup consistency is a personal preference. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to allow it to reduce and thicken slightly. Alternatively, you can whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) towards the end of cooking and simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Remember that the soup will also thicken slightly as it cools.
5. Make it Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly (with Adjustments): To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. To make it vegan, you’ll need to make a few more substitutions:
   • Butter: Use vegan butter or olive oil.
   • Heavy Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk (the thick creamy part from the top of a refrigerated can) or a vegan heavy cream alternative.
   • Cream Cheese: Use vegan cream cheese. There are many good brands available now, often made from nuts or soy.
   • Cheddar Cheese: Use vegan shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Broth: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
   While these substitutions will alter the flavor slightly, you can still create a delicious and creamy vegan potato soup inspired by the Panera version. You might need to adjust seasonings slightly to compensate for flavor differences in vegan ingredients.

By incorporating these additional tips into your cooking process, you can further refine your copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup and create a truly exceptional and personalized version of this comforting classic.

FAQ: Your Burning Potato Soup Questions Answered

Got questions about making copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and achieve soup perfection:

Q1: My soup is not as creamy as Panera’s. What did I do wrong?

A1: Several factors can contribute to a less creamy soup:

• Not enough cream cheese or heavy cream: Ensure you are using the full amounts of cream cheese and heavy cream specified in the recipe. These are key ingredients for achieving that signature creaminess.
• Using low-fat dairy: Substituting with low-fat cream cheese, milk, or half-and-half will result in a less creamy soup. Full-fat dairy is recommended for the best texture.
• Not blending enough: Blending a portion of the soup is crucial for a smooth and creamy texture. If you skipped this step or didn’t blend enough, the soup might be chunkier and less creamy. Use an immersion blender or carefully blend part of the soup in a regular blender.
• Potatoes not starchy enough: Russet potatoes are recommended for their high starch content, which contributes to creaminess. If you used a different type of potato (like red potatoes), the soup might be less creamy.

Q2: My soup is too thick! How can I thin it out?

A2: If your soup is thicker than you prefer, thinning it out is easy:

• Add more liquid: Gradually add more chicken broth or milk, a little at a time, stirring well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. Start with ¼ cup at a time to avoid thinning it too much.
• Warm the liquid: Using warm broth or milk is preferable to cold liquid, as it will help maintain the soup’s temperature and prevent it from cooling down too quickly.

Q3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A3: Yes, absolutely! This soup is a great make-ahead dish.

• Make the soup base: You can prepare the soup up to the point of adding the dairy and cheese a day or two in advance. Cool it completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months).
• Add dairy and cheese later: When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup base gently over low heat. Once heated through, stir in the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, milk, and cheddar cheese. Heat until the cheeses are melted and the soup is heated through.
• Reheat leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It may thicken slightly upon refrigeration, so you may need to add a little broth or milk when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?

A4: Freezing potato soup with dairy can sometimes affect the texture, but it is possible with a few considerations:

• Freeze the base without dairy: For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream cheese, heavy cream, milk, and cheddar cheese. Cool the soup base completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Add dairy after thawing: When ready to serve, thaw the soup base completely in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave. Reheat it gently on the stovetop. Once heated through, stir in the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, milk, and cheddar cheese. Heat until melted and heated through.
• Texture changes: Freezing and thawing dairy-based soups can sometimes result in a slightly grainy or separated texture. This is due to the fat in the dairy separating. Whisking vigorously while reheating can help to re-emulsify the soup and improve the texture.
• Freeze in portions: Freeze the soup in individual portions for easy thawing and reheating for single servings.

Q5: What if I don’t have an immersion blender? Can I still make this soup?

A5: Yes, you can definitely make this soup without an immersion blender!

• Regular blender: Carefully transfer about half of the soup to a regular blender (in batches) and blend until smooth. Caution: Be extremely careful when blending hot soup. Vent the lid of the blender and blend in small batches to prevent splattering and potential burns. Return the blended soup to the pot.
• Potato masher: If you don’t have a blender at all, you can use a potato masher to roughly mash some of the potatoes in the pot. This will give the soup a slightly chunkier but still creamy texture. It won’t be as smooth as blended soup, but it will still be delicious.
• Leave it chunky: If you prefer a chunkier potato soup, you can skip the blending step altogether and simply enjoy it as is!

By addressing these common questions, you should feel more confident and prepared to tackle making your own delicious copycat Panera Cream Cheese Potato Soup. Happy cooking and soup enjoying!

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