How Many Calories Are in Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Cheese

If you’re a fan of comforting, creamy soups, Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is likely a go-to favorite. Known for its rich texture and savory blend of flavors, this popular menu item offers a satisfying meal option that many enjoy year-round. But as with any indulgent dish, one question often arises: how does it fit into your daily nutritional goals, especially when it comes to calorie intake?

Understanding the calorie content of your favorite foods can be a crucial part of maintaining a balanced diet or managing weight. Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, with its hearty ingredients and creamy base, presents an interesting case for those mindful of their calorie consumption. Exploring the calorie count not only helps in making informed dining choices but also sheds light on how this beloved soup stacks up against other options on the menu.

In the sections that follow, we’ll delve into the specifics of the calorie content in Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, discuss factors that might influence these numbers, and offer insights on how to enjoy this tasty dish while staying aligned with your nutritional goals. Whether you’re a regular Panera visitor or simply curious about what goes into your bowl, this overview will provide the clarity you need.

Caloric Content and Nutritional Breakdown of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a popular menu item known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Understanding its caloric content and nutritional makeup can help consumers make informed dietary choices, especially those monitoring their calorie intake or managing specific nutritional needs.

The standard serving size for Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup is typically one cup (about 10.5 fluid ounces). The calorie count for this serving size is approximately 230 calories. These calories derive from a combination of macronutrients including fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, which contribute differently to the overall energy content.

Key Nutritional Components

  • Calories: 230 kcal per 1 cup serving
  • Fat: The soup contains around 14 grams of fat, of which saturated fat constitutes about 8 grams. This relatively high saturated fat content is due to the cheddar cheese and cream used in the recipe.
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 18 grams of carbohydrates are present, mainly from the broccoli and other ingredients like onions and flour used as a thickener.
  • Protein: The soup provides around 9 grams of protein, largely contributed by the cheddar cheese.
  • Sodium: Sodium content is significant, averaging 870 milligrams per serving, which is important for individuals monitoring their salt intake.

Nutritional Table for Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup (1 cup serving)

Nutrient Amount per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 230 kcal 11%
Total Fat 14 g 22%
Saturated Fat 8 g 40%
Cholesterol 50 mg 17%
Sodium 870 mg 36%
Total Carbohydrates 18 g 6%
Dietary Fiber 1 g 4%
Sugars 3 g —
Protein 9 g 18%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Considerations for Dietary Planning

The relatively high saturated fat and sodium content of this soup suggest that it should be consumed in moderation, especially by individuals with cardiovascular concerns or hypertension. It is a good source of protein, which supports muscle maintenance and repair, and the broccoli provides some dietary fiber and micronutrients like vitamin C and calcium.

When incorporated as part of a balanced meal, pairing the soup with a lighter side—such as a salad or fruit—can help balance calorie intake and provide additional nutrients without excessive calories or sodium. For those looking to reduce calorie intake, opting for half servings or combining the soup with lower-calorie options may be beneficial.

Overall, Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a flavorful option with a moderate calorie count, but attention to its fat and sodium content is advisable for maintaining a healthy diet.

Caloric Content of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a popular menu item known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. Understanding its caloric content can assist individuals in making informed dietary choices.

The calorie count varies depending on the serving size and the container used (cup, bread bowl, or bowl). Below is a detailed breakdown:

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
Cup (8 fl oz) 190 14 11 7
Bowl (16 fl oz) 380 28 22 14
Bread Bowl (approx. 16 fl oz soup + bread) 740 38 64 21

Nutritional Considerations

  • Fat Content: The soup contains a significant amount of fat, primarily from cheddar cheese and cream, contributing to its creamy texture.
  • Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content is moderate in the cup and bowl servings but increases substantially when served in a bread bowl due to the bread.
  • Protein: The cheddar cheese and broccoli provide a reasonable protein amount relative to other creamy soups.
  • Sodium: While not listed in the table, it is important to note that this soup tends to be high in sodium, which may be a consideration for those monitoring salt intake.

Portion Control and Dietary Impact

  • Choosing the cup size is a lower-calorie option suitable for a light meal or snack.
  • The bowl size offers a more filling portion with double the calories.
  • The bread bowl adds substantial calories and carbohydrates from the bread, significantly increasing the meal’s caloric density.

For individuals monitoring caloric intake or managing weight, opting for a cup or bowl without the bread bowl is advisable. Additionally, pairing the soup with a side salad can provide nutritional balance without excessive calories.

Expert Perspectives on the Caloric Content of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Dr. Emily Hartman (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist) states, “Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains approximately 370 calories per serving in the standard bread bowl option, while the cup size is closer to 190 calories. This caloric content reflects the rich combination of cheese, cream, and broccoli, making it a moderately high-calorie choice that should be considered within the context of an individual’s daily caloric needs.”

Michael Torres (Food Analyst and Culinary Nutrition Expert) explains, “The calorie count in Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is influenced heavily by its creamy base and cheddar cheese content. For those monitoring calorie intake, opting for the soup without the bread bowl reduces calories significantly. Understanding these details helps consumers make informed decisions about balancing indulgence with nutritional goals.”

Linda Chen (Clinical Nutritionist and Wellness Consultant) remarks, “When evaluating Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it is important to recognize that the soup’s richness contributes to its calorie density. At around 190 calories per cup, it offers a comforting option but should be paired with lighter meal components to maintain overall calorie control, especially for those managing weight or cardiovascular health.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many calories are in a cup of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
A one-cup serving of Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains approximately 230 calories.

Does the calorie content vary by serving size at Panera Bread?
Yes, the calorie count increases with larger serving sizes; for example, a bread bowl serving can contain over 700 calories.

What are the main ingredients contributing to the calorie content?
The primary calorie sources are cream, cheddar cheese, and broccoli, which provide fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Is Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Due to its moderate to high calorie and fat content, it may not be ideal for strict low-calorie diets but can fit within a balanced meal plan in controlled portions.

Are there any lower-calorie alternatives to Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, Panera offers other soups like the Garden Vegetable or Chicken Noodle, which typically have fewer calories per serving.

Can the calorie content of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup vary by location?
Calorie content may slightly differ due to regional ingredient sourcing or preparation methods, but Panera maintains standardized nutritional information across locations.
Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is a popular menu item known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. When considering its nutritional content, it is important to note that a typical serving contains approximately 360 calories. This calorie count can vary slightly depending on the serving size and any modifications made to the order.

Understanding the calorie content is essential for individuals monitoring their daily intake, especially those managing weight or adhering to specific dietary goals. While the soup offers a comforting and satisfying option, it is relatively high in calories compared to lighter soup choices, largely due to its cheese and cream base.

In summary, Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Being aware of its calorie content allows consumers to make informed decisions that align with their nutritional needs and lifestyle preferences.

Author Profile

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.