This soup packs a creamy blend of calories, protein, and calcium, making it a hearty and satisfying meal choice.
Nutritional Breakdown of the Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Broccoli cheddar soup from Au Bon Pain is well-known for its rich, creamy texture paired with the wholesome flavor of broccoli and sharp cheddar cheese. Understanding its nutritional profile helps gauge how it fits into various diets, whether you’re watching calories or aiming for a balanced intake of macronutrients.
A standard serving size of this soup is typically around 12 ounces. This portion size delivers a substantial amount of energy and nutrients that can serve as a filling snack or a light meal. The soup combines dairy, vegetables, and seasonings to create a comforting dish that appeals to many palates.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (12 oz) | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | 16% |
| Total Fat | 22 g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 13 g | 65% |
| Sodium | 830 mg | 35% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18 g | 6% |
| Sugars | 4 g | – |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g | 8% |
| Protein | 13 g | 26% |
| Calcium | 300 mg | 30% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
The Role of Macronutrients in This Soup
The creamy texture comes primarily from fats and proteins found in cheddar cheese and cream. With 22 grams of total fat per serving, this soup leans toward the richer side. Out of these fats, saturated fat accounts for about 13 grams, which is significant considering daily recommended limits.
The protein content stands at 13 grams per bowl, mostly contributed by cheese and milk components. This amount supports muscle maintenance and repair, making the soup more than just empty calories. Meanwhile, carbohydrates total around 18 grams with 2 grams coming from dietary fiber, largely sourced from broccoli and other vegetable ingredients.
Sodium Content Considerations
The sodium level reaches approximately 830 milligrams per serving, which covers roughly one-third of the advised daily maximum for an average adult. This is an important consideration for those monitoring salt intake due to blood pressure or heart health concerns. The seasoning blend used in preparation contributes heavily to this figure.
A Closer Look at Vitamins and Minerals Present
The broccoli component boosts this soup’s vitamin profile with vitamin C and vitamin K content. These vitamins support immune function and blood clotting respectively. However, the main mineral highlight is calcium—thanks to the cheddar cheese—which delivers about 30% of daily calcium needs in one serving.
This calcium boost aids bone health and muscle function while complementing the protein content for overall nutritional balance. Trace amounts of iron and potassium are also present but less remarkable compared to calcium levels.
Sugar Content Explained
This soup contains about 4 grams of sugars per serving. These sugars are naturally occurring from milk lactose and vegetables rather than added sweeteners. The moderate sugar level keeps it within reasonable limits for most diets without causing spikes in blood sugar levels.
Nutritional Impact Compared to Similar Soups
This broccoli cheddar offering stands out as richer than many vegetable-based soups due to its higher fat and protein content from dairy ingredients. It offers more satiety compared to broth-based or pureed vegetable soups that tend to be lower in calories but may not satisfy hunger as effectively.
| Nutrient Comparison (per 12 oz) | This Soup (Broccoli Cheddar) | Minestrone Soup (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 13 g | 6 g |
| Fat | 22 g | 3 g |
| Sodium | 830 mg | 700 mg |
This comparison highlights how much creamier soups like this one pack more energy but also more fat compared to leaner options such as minestrone.
Taste Profile Connected to Nutritional Elements
The rich mouthfeel comes from fats melting smoothly across the palate while sharp cheddar imparts a tangy depth that balances the mild sweetness of broccoli. The slight saltiness enhances flavors further but also explains the elevated sodium count. Texture-wise, tender broccoli florets provide bite contrast against velvety broth.
This balance makes it appealing not just as comfort food but also as a source of essential nutrients often lacking in quick meals.
Satisfaction Factor: Why It Feels Filling
The combination of fat and protein slows digestion slightly, extending fullness after eating. Fiber from broccoli adds bulk without extra calories while stimulating digestion gently. Together these elements reduce hunger pangs longer than carbohydrate-heavy dishes alone would do.
Navigating Dietary Restrictions with This Soup Choice
Lactose intolerance poses challenges since dairy is central here; however, some versions may use lactose-reduced milk or offer alternative preparations elsewhere. For those limiting saturated fat intake due to cardiovascular concerns, this soup should be enjoyed sparingly or balanced with low-fat meals throughout the day.
Sodium-conscious individuals may want to pair it with fresh salads or steamed vegetables rather than additional salty sides to keep overall daily intake moderate.
Packing Nutrients Without Overdoing Calories?
A single bowl offers enough nourishment for lunch alongside a light salad or sandwich without tipping calorie counts too high—especially if physical activity accompanies meal routines regularly.
The Ingredients Behind the Nutrition Numbers
The core ingredients include:
- Cream: Provides rich fat content contributing both calories and smooth texture.
- Cream Cheese & Cheddar Cheese: Main sources of protein, saturated fats, calcium, and flavor depth.
- Broccli: Adds fiber, vitamins C & K plus subtle vegetal flavor contrast.
- Mild Seasonings: Salt and spices round out taste while affecting sodium levels significantly.
- Mild Stock Base: Enhances moisture content without adding excessive calories or carbs.
This combination results in a nutrient-dense product that feels indulgent yet delivers key dietary building blocks efficiently.
Culinary Tips for Enjoying It Healthfully at Home
If you want similar flavors but control over nutrition details at home:
- Select reduced-fat cheeses or use part-skim milk instead of heavy cream;
- Add extra fresh broccoli for more fiber;
- Lessen salt during preparation;
- Create your own broth base using low-sodium stock;
- Add herbs like thyme or nutmeg for added aroma without extra sodium;
Avoiding Overconsumption Pitfalls
The richness can tempt overeating because creamy textures often feel indulgent beyond actual calorie needs. Portion control matters here—sticking close to one cup servings keeps energy intake aligned with typical meal plans while still satisfying cravings effectively.
Nutritional Balance Within Daily Meal Plans Including This Soup
This soup pairs well with lighter accompaniments such as green salads dressed lightly with vinaigrettes or whole grain crackers providing complex carbs without excess fat or sugar loadings. Combining it with fresh fruit afterward rounds out micronutrient diversity nicely too.
A Sample Balanced Lunch Idea Featuring This Soup:
- A bowl (12 oz) broccoli cheddar soup
- A side spinach salad with lemon dressing
- A small apple
This meal hits protein targets adequately while controlling fats through portion sizing elsewhere in the day’s menu plan.
Navigating Special Diets: Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Aspects
The recipe fits vegetarian diets since no meat products are involved but contains dairy so not vegan-friendly unless modified accordingly using plant-based cheeses and creams.
Gluten-free status depends on whether any flour thickeners are used during preparation; many commercial versions rely on wheat flour which excludes gluten-sensitive consumers unless specified otherwise.
Consumers sensitive to gluten need confirmation from product labeling or staff before purchase.
Key Takeaways: Au Bon Pain Broccoli Cheddar Soup Nutrition
➤ Calories: Moderate calorie content per serving.
➤ Protein: Provides a good source of protein.
➤ Fat: Contains moderate fat levels, including saturated fat.
➤ Sodium: Relatively high sodium content to consider.
➤ Vitamins: Rich in vitamins from broccoli and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Calorie And Fat Contents In The Broccoli Cheddar Soup?
This soup contains approximately 320 calories per 12-ounce serving, with a total fat content of 22 grams. It is relatively rich in saturated fat, providing about 13 grams, which is important to consider for those monitoring their fat intake.
How Much Protein Does A Serving Of This Soup Provide?
A single serving delivers around 13 grams of protein, mainly from cheddar cheese and milk. This amount supports muscle maintenance and makes the soup a more satisfying meal option beyond just calories.
What Is The Sodium Level In A Typical Bowl?
The sodium content is about 830 milligrams per serving, which accounts for roughly one-third of the recommended daily intake. Individuals watching their salt consumption should take this into account when enjoying this soup.
Does The Soup Offer Any Dietary Fiber Or Carbohydrates?
This creamy soup contains around 18 grams of total carbohydrates per serving, including 2 grams of dietary fiber sourced primarily from broccoli. The fiber contributes to digestive health while balancing the macronutrient profile.
Which Vitamins And Minerals Are Prominent In This Dish?
The broccoli adds vitamin C and vitamin K, supporting immune health and blood clotting. Additionally, the cheddar cheese provides a significant calcium boost, delivering about 30% of daily calcium needs in one bowl.
The Bottom Line on Nutritional Value
This hearty soup delivers balanced nutrition centered around fats from dairy sources complemented by moderate carbs and solid protein content—all wrapped up in comforting flavors.
Its calcium punch supports bone health while broccoli provides vitamins often missed in fast meals.
Mindful portions keep saturated fat and sodium manageable within diverse eating patterns.
Enjoying this dish occasionally fits well into varied menus aiming for both satisfaction and nourishment.