Prep Time:
10 minsCook Time:
25 minsTotal Time:
35 mins
Servings4
Calories400
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description
Cheddar Cheese Soup: Rich, Creamy, and Irresistible
Cheddar cheese soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and satisfying. This rich, velvety soup is made with a combination of sharp cheddar cheese, milk, heavy cream, and broth, creating a creamy base that is both smooth and flavorful. The addition of sautéed onions, carrots, and celery provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while garlic enhances the overall richness. A touch of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce adds a slight tanginess, complementing the bold cheddar taste.
One of the best things about cheddar cheese soup is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a main course with crusty bread or serve it as an appetizer before a hearty meal. It also pairs well with toppings like crispy bacon, chives, or croutons, adding texture and extra flavor. If you prefer a spicier version, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the dish.
This soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or simply indulging in some cheesy goodness, this cheddar cheese soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy its creamy, cheesy, and comforting taste in every spoonful! 😊
Related
Grilled cheddar cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
2tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2tbsp all-purpose flour
2cups chicken or vegetable broth
1cup whole milk
1cup heavy cream
2cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2tsp Dijon mustard
1/4tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
¼tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Chopped chives or crumbled bacon (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
Over medium heat, allow butter to liquefy in a spacious pot.
Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Blend the garlic into the mixture and let it simmer for an additional minute.
Make the Roux
Dust the vegetables with flour and keep stirring for roughly two minutes to cook away the flour's uncooked flavor.
Add Liquids
Gradually pour in chicken or vegetable broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
Add milk and heavy cream, stirring well. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Cheese & Seasoning
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, until fully melted.
To achieve a silkier consistency, employ an immersion blender to blend the soup into a smooth puree.
Serve & Garnish
Pour into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or crumbled bacon.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories400kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat30g47%
Saturated Fat18g90%
Cholesterol85mg29%
Sodium700mg30%
Total Carbohydrate15g5%
Dietary Fiber1g4%
Sugars5g
Protein15g30%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect smoothness.
Avoid overheating the cheese: Too much heat can cause the cheese to become grainy.
Adjust thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or milk.
Add more flavor: A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can enhance the taste.
FAQ
1️⃣ Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique taste.
2️⃣ How do I prevent my soup from becoming grainy?
Avoid overheating the cheese. Always add it gradually over low heat and stir constantly to ensure a smooth texture.
3️⃣ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.
4️⃣ How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating.
5️⃣ Can I freeze cheddar cheese soup?
Freezing is not recommended, as dairy-based soups can become grainy and separate when thawed. If you must freeze it, reheat slowly while stirring to restore its consistency.
6️⃣ Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the soup.
7️⃣ What can I serve with cheddar cheese soup?
It pairs well with crusty bread, soft pretzels, roasted vegetables, or even a side of grilled cheese for extra indulgence.
8️⃣ How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to give the soup a bit of heat.
9️⃣ Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup may not be as creamy. You can thicken it with a little extra cheese or a cornstarch slurry.
🔟 How can I make the soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin, let it simmer longer or mix in more shredded cheese. You can also use a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) for a thicker consistency.