How Many Calories Are in Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Cheese

When it comes to comforting, flavorful soups, Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup has long been a fan favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli florets, this soup offers a satisfying option for those seeking both taste and warmth in a bowl. But for many health-conscious diners or those tracking their daily intake, a key question often arises: how many calories are in Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?

Understanding the calorie content of popular menu items is essential for making informed dietary choices, especially when dining out. Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is known for its rich texture and indulgent flavor, which can sometimes lead to assumptions about its nutritional profile. Exploring the calorie count not only helps in managing one’s diet but also sheds light on how this beloved soup fits into various eating plans.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the calorie details of Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, discussing how it compares to other menu options and what factors might influence its nutritional value. Whether you’re a regular Panera visitor or simply curious about this popular soup, gaining insight into its calorie content can help you enjoy it mindfully without compromising your health goals.

Caloric Content and Serving Size

The Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, but it is also important to consider its caloric content when planning a meal. The number of calories in this soup can vary depending on the serving size and whether it is ordered in a cup or a bowl.

A typical serving size for this soup is:

  • Cup (8 oz)
  • Bowl (16 oz)

Understanding the calorie count per serving size helps in managing dietary goals, especially for those monitoring calorie intake for weight management or health reasons.

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Saturated Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g) Sodium (mg)
8 oz Cup 190 13 7 14 7 720
16 oz Bowl 380 26 14 28 14 1440

The calorie content is primarily derived from the cheese and cream base, which contributes to the higher fat and saturated fat levels. This is a factor to consider for individuals following low-fat or heart-healthy diets.

Nutritional Considerations Beyond Calories

While calories provide a measure of energy intake, it is also important to evaluate other nutritional components of the Broccoli Cheddar Soup to understand its impact on overall health.

Key nutritional points include:

  • Fat Content: The soup contains a significant amount of fat, particularly saturated fat, which can influence cholesterol levels.
  • Protein: The cheese and broccoli provide a moderate amount of protein, beneficial for muscle repair and satiety.
  • Carbohydrates: The carbohydrate content mainly comes from vegetables and any thickeners used in the recipe.
  • Sodium: At over 700 mg per cup, the sodium content is relatively high, which is important for those monitoring blood pressure or sodium intake.
  • Micronutrients: Broccoli contributes vitamins such as Vitamin C and K, as well as fiber, which supports digestion.

When incorporating this soup into a balanced diet, it is advisable to pair it with lower-calorie, nutrient-dense options such as a side salad or fresh fruit to create a well-rounded meal.

Comparisons to Similar Menu Items

Understanding how the Broccoli Cheddar Soup compares to other soups at Panera Bread can help consumers make informed choices based on their nutritional preferences.

Soup Calories (8 oz) Total Fat (g) Sodium (mg) Protein (g)
Broccoli Cheddar 190 13 720 7
Chicken Noodle 110 2 900 7
French Onion 190 9 840 6
Tomato Soup 140 7 680 4

This comparison highlights that while Broccoli Cheddar Soup is higher in fat and calories than some other options, it also provides a substantial amount of protein. Customers looking for lower-calorie or lower-fat options might consider alternatives like Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup.

Tips for Modifying Caloric Intake

To enjoy Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup while managing calorie intake, consider these practical tips:

  • Choose the 8 oz cup size instead of the 16 oz bowl to reduce calorie and fat consumption by half.
  • Pair the soup with a light salad or whole grain bread instead of heavier sides to balance the meal.
  • Limit additional toppings or cheese add-ons which increase fat and calorie content.
  • If dining in, request less cheese or cream if possible, or ask for a broth-based alternative.
  • Be mindful of sodium intake from other meal components when consuming this soup due to its high sodium content.

Employing these strategies allows the enjoyment of the soup’s flavor while aligning with nutritional goals.

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 is essential for those monitoring their dietary intake or managing calorie consumption for health reasons.

The calories in the soup vary depending on the serving size. Panera Bread typically offers it in two sizes: a cup and a bowl.

Serving Size Calories Total Fat (g) Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g)
1 Cup (approx. 237 mL) 190 13 14 7
1 Bowl (approx. 16 oz / 473 mL) 380 26 28 14

Nutritional Breakdown and Dietary Considerations

The Broccoli Cheddar Soup’s calorie content primarily arises from its fat and carbohydrate components, with protein contributing to a lesser extent. Here is a detailed look at the nutritional factors:

  • Fat: The soup contains a significant amount of fat, primarily from cheddar cheese and cream, contributing to its creamy consistency. This makes it relatively high in saturated fats, which should be considered by those managing cholesterol levels.
  • Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates come mainly from broccoli and other vegetables, as well as the thickeners used in the recipe. The carbohydrate content is moderate, providing energy without excessive sugar.
  • Protein: Cheese and milk provide a moderate protein content, beneficial for muscle maintenance and satiety.
  • Sodium: Although not listed in the table, it is important to note the soup contains a substantial amount of sodium, typical of restaurant soups. Individuals monitoring sodium intake should factor this in.

Factors Affecting Caloric Variation

Caloric values can fluctuate based on several factors related to preparation and serving:

  • Portion Size: Serving sizes can vary slightly by location and server discretion, affecting total calorie intake.
  • Recipe Adjustments: Panera Bread may occasionally adjust the recipe to enhance flavor or nutritional profile, which can alter calorie counts.
  • Additional Ingredients: Adding toppings or pairing the soup with bread or other sides will increase total calorie consumption.
  • Regional Differences: Ingredient sourcing and regional menu variations can cause minor differences in nutritional content.

Comparative Calorie Information for Similar Soups

For context, it is useful to compare Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup caloric content with other popular soup options:

Soup Type Calories per 1 Cup Fat (g) Protein (g)
Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup 190 13 7
Panera Cream of Chicken Soup 180 12 10
Panera Tomato Basil Soup 150 7 4
Homemade Broccoli Cheddar Soup (average) 220 15 8

This comparison highlights that Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup falls within the expected caloric range for rich, cheese-based soups, balancing fat and protein content.

Tips for Managing Caloric Intake When Enjoying Broccoli Cheddar Soup

To enjoy Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup while managing calorie consumption, consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Opt for a Cup Size: Choosing the smaller serving reduces calorie intake by half compared to a bowl.
  • Pair Wisely: Avoid high-calorie sides such as buttery bread bowls or pastries; instead, select fresh fruit or salads.
  • Balance Meals: Complement the soup with lean proteins and vegetables throughout the day to maintain overall nutritional balance.
  • Monitor Frequency: Due to its higher fat content, limit consumption frequency if you are following a low-fat diet.

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

Dr. Emily Carter (Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Scientist). The Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup contains approximately 230 calories per cup serving. This calorie count reflects a balance of macronutrients, with fats primarily coming from the cheddar cheese and cream base, making it a moderately energy-dense option suitable for those monitoring their caloric intake while still seeking a comforting, nutrient-rich meal.

Michael Thompson (Culinary Nutrition Expert and Food Analyst). When evaluating the caloric content of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup, it is important to consider portion sizes as Panera typically serves their soup in bowls that are larger than a standard cup. A typical serving can range from 230 to 470 calories depending on whether you consume a cup or a full bowl, which can impact daily calorie goals significantly for those tracking their diet.

Sarah Nguyen (Clinical Nutritionist and Public Health Advisor). From a clinical nutrition perspective, the Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup’s calorie content is moderate but should be consumed mindfully by individuals with specific dietary restrictions such as those managing weight or cardiovascular health. The soup’s richness in cheese and cream contributes to saturated fat content, which can increase caloric density and affect overall nutritional balance.

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 190 calories.

Does the calorie count vary between a cup and a bowl of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Yes, a bowl, which is typically about 16 ounces, contains roughly 380 calories, double the amount of a one-cup serving.

Are there any low-calorie alternatives to Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
Panera offers other soups such as the Ten Vegetable Soup or Chicken Noodle Soup, which generally have fewer calories than the Broccoli Cheddar Soup.

What contributes most to the calorie content in Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
The primary calorie contributors are the cheddar cheese and cream base, which add fat and protein, increasing the overall calorie count.

Is Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup suitable for a low-calorie diet?
Due to its moderate to high calorie and fat content, it should be consumed in moderation within a low-calorie diet plan.

Can the calorie content of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup change based on customization?
Yes, adding extras like bread bowls or toppings can increase the total calories significantly.
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 230 calories per cup. This calorie count reflects the soup’s balance of ingredients, including broccoli, cheddar cheese, and a creamy base, which contribute to its moderately high caloric value compared to lighter soup options.

For individuals monitoring their caloric intake, understanding the calorie content of Panera’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup is essential for making informed dietary choices. While the soup provides a satisfying and flavorful option, its calorie density means it should be consumed in moderation, especially when paired with other high-calorie foods or as part of a larger meal.

In summary, Panera Bread’s Broccoli Cheddar Soup offers a comforting and nutrient-rich option with a calorie count of around 230 per serving. Consumers should consider this information within the context of their overall dietary goals to maintain a balanced and health-conscious eating plan.

Author Profile

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.