Panera's Broccoli Cheddar Soup: A Calorie and Nutrition Deep Dive
Panera's broccoli cheddar soup is a favorite for its creamy texture and flavor. Understanding the nutritional information is key for those watching their diet. While the number of calories for a bowl is 360, it is important to consider the full nutritional picture, including the macronutrient breakdown and any accompanying menu items.
The Nutritional Facts for a Single Bowl
Beyond just calories, a bowl of Panera's broccoli cheddar soup contains a balance of macronutrients and sodium. A closer look at the data shows:
- Total Fat: 24g. A large portion is saturated fat at 19g and 2.5g of trans fat. This high fat content adds to the soup's creamy texture and high calorie count.
- Sodium: 1520mg. This is a very high amount of sodium, representing over half the daily recommended limit for many people. This is a significant consideration for people with high blood pressure or other dietary restrictions.
- Carbohydrates: 25g. The soup has a moderate amount of carbohydrates, with 1g of dietary fiber and 9g of total sugars.
- Protein: 13g. The protein comes from the cheese and other ingredients.
It's also worth noting that the nutritional information can vary slightly based on the specific preparation and the recipe version used. The at-home grocery version may have different numbers than what is served in the restaurant, so it is always best to check the most current information available.
How Add-ons Affect Your Meal
The calorie count can change dramatically when you add accompaniments. Here are some examples of how popular add-ons can change the total calories:
- French Baguette (Free Side): An additional 180 calories.
- A full-sized sandwich: Pairing the soup with a full sandwich can push the total meal calories to over 1000, depending on the sandwich selected.
- Bread Bowl: The bread bowl itself adds a large number of calories. For example, a Creamy Tomato Soup bread bowl contains 920 calories total. According to one nutrition tracking site, a broccoli cheddar bread bowl can have over 900 calories.
Comparison Table: Panera Soups by Calorie Count
| Soup Type (Bowl) | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli Cheddar | 360 | 24 | 1520 |
| Homestyle Chicken Noodle | 180 | 5 | 1730 |
| Creamy Tomato | 370 | 23 | 1120 |
| Cream of Chicken & Wild Rice | 280 | Not listed | Not listed |
| Bistro French Onion | 290 | Not listed | Not listed |
Is the Soup a Good Choice for Your Diet?
Whether the broccoli cheddar soup is a good choice depends on your specific dietary goals. The high sodium content might be a deterrent for those watching their sodium. The 360-calorie count for the bowl is reasonable, provided it is not paired with a bread bowl or other high-calorie sides. Adding the French baguette increases the total calories to 540. For a lower-calorie soup alternative at Panera, the Homestyle Chicken Noodle soup is an excellent option at 180 calories. The broccoli cheddar is a poor choice due to its high saturated fat content for those focused on a low-fat diet.
Regular consumption of the broccoli cheddar soup is fine, but it's wise to consider the complete nutritional profile. Pairing it with a healthier side, like an apple, rather than the baguette or bread bowl, can help manage the total calories and improve the overall nutritional balance of the meal.
Conclusion
A bowl of broccoli cheddar soup from Panera contains 360 calories, along with high levels of fat and sodium. While a popular menu item, customers should be mindful of the total nutritional impact, especially when pairing it with high-calorie sides. For a healthier option, consider Panera's lower-calorie soup alternatives. The key is to be informed about the nutritional facts to make the best choice for your dietary needs. It is always recommended to consult Panera's official website directly before placing your order.
Can you customize the Panera broccoli cheddar soup to be healthier?
Yes, while you can't alter the core recipe, you can make healthier meal choices by pairing it with a lower-calorie side. Opt for an apple instead of the baguette, or choose a half portion alongside a salad with a light dressing.
How many calories are in a cup of Panera broccoli cheddar soup?
Panera offers a cup of soup as a smaller size. A cup would contain a significantly lower amount, roughly half the calories of a bowl.
Is the Panera broccoli cheddar soup high in fat?
Yes, a bowl of Panera's broccoli cheddar soup contains 24 grams of fat, with 19 grams of that being saturated fat. This is considered high.
Is the Panera broccoli cheddar soup high in sodium?
Yes, a bowl contains 1520mg of sodium, which is over half of the recommended daily limit for many people. This makes it a high-sodium menu item.
What are some lower-calorie soup alternatives at Panera?
For those looking for a lower-calorie option, Panera's Homestyle Chicken Noodle soup is a good alternative, with only 180 calories per bowl.
Are the at-home Panera broccoli cheddar soups the same nutritionally?
No, the at-home grocery versions of Panera's soups can have different nutritional values than the ones served in the restaurant, and are typically served in different-sized portions. You should always check the nutritional label on the specific product you purchase.
What is the calorie count for the Panera broccoli cheddar bread bowl?
When served in a bread bowl, the calorie count for the broccoli cheddar soup rises dramatically, potentially to over 900 calories, as shown by similar bread bowl options. The bread bowl itself adds a substantial amount of calories.
