Panera Potato Soup Recipe lovers, this one’s for you! Creamy, hearty, and filled with comforting flavors, this homemade version brings the café favorite straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re facing a chilly evening or just craving a cozy, satisfying meal, this Panera Potato Soup Recipe delivers warmth in every spoonful. Made with russet potatoes, savory broth, cream, and a touch of cheese, it’s a classic that’s both easy to make and loved by all ages.

Let’s dive into everything you need to recreate this beloved soup with ease and finesse.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic comfort food with a gourmet twist
Perfect balance of creaminess and texture
Quick enough for weeknights, cozy enough for weekends
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
Easy to customize with toppings or mix-ins

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh chives or scallions, for garnish
Optional: crumbled bacon, sour cream, or crispy onions for toppings

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Simmer the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour in the broth and bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 15–20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
Blend to Perfection
Use an immersion blender or transfer soup in batches to a blender. Blend until smooth or leave a few chunks for texture, depending on preference.
Add Cream & Cheese
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve with Style
Ladle into bowls and top with chives, cheese, bacon bits, or your favorite toppings. Serve warm.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls

Nutrition Facts (per serving — approx.)

Calories: 310
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 9g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Tips & Variations

Swap in Yukon Gold potatoes for extra buttery flavor
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
Add ham or shredded chicken for protein
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months
Stir in sour cream for extra richness
Want it dairy-free? Use oat milk and vegan cheese

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but expect a slightly softer texture. Great for quick prep!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just double-check your broth and toppings for gluten-containing additives.

What meat can I add?
Cooked bacon, ham, or shredded rotisserie chicken all work beautifully.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What toppings go best with potato soup?
Cheddar cheese, green onions, crispy bacon, sour cream, and even jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Panera Potato Soup Recipe

A creamy, café-style potato soup inspired by Panera. Simple, cozy, and perfect for any night of the week.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 310 kcal

Equipment

– Large soup pot
Blender or immersion blender
Ladle

Ingredients

– 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced
– 1 medium yellow onion diced
– 2 cloves garlic minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish
– Optional toppings: bacon sour cream, extra cheese

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onions for 5 minutes, then garlic for 1 minute.
Add potatoes, salt, pepper, paprika. Pour in broth. Simmer 15–20 minutes.
Blend to desired consistency.
Stir in cream and cheese until melted.
Serve with your favorite toppings.

Notes

– Substitute half-and-half for a lighter version
– Add ham or chicken for extra protein
– Stores well in fridge or freezer

Keyword Panera Potato Soup Recipe

Conclusion

There’s something magical about recreating the comfort of a Panera Potato Soup Recipe at home. With simple ingredients and a few smart techniques, you’ll have a bowl full of creamy, savory satisfaction that rivals any restaurant version. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or to impress at a cozy gathering, this recipe will be a go-to favorite.