Introduction
Indulging in a warm, creamy soup can elevate any chilly day, and this delicious cheddar cheese soup is the perfect option. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Pair it with some crusty bread for an enjoyable meal any time of the year.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
3 tablespoons butter
⅓ cup diced onion
⅓ cup diced carrots
⅓ cup diced celery
⅓ cup red bell pepper
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 to 2½ cups milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 to 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This cheddar cheese soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The sautéed vegetables combined with rich cheese create a delightful dish that’s perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter until it is completely liquid and bubbly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, diced carrot, diced celery, and diced red bell pepper to the melted butter. Cook the mixture for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Step 3: Combine with Flour
Stir in the all-purpose flour, pepper, and salt. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute, stirring continuously to eliminate any raw flour taste, ensuring it is well combined with the sautéed vegetables.
Step 4: Add Milk and Cream
Gradually add 2 cups of milk to the saucepan while continuously stirring the mixture. Reserve the remaining ½ cup of milk for later. Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly to combine all the liquids.
Step 5: Incorporate Flavors
Add the Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic salt, and cayenne pepper to the saucepan. Continue to cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to incorporate the flavors.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Introduce the sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. If the soup appears too thick, add the reserved ½ cup of milk gradually to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the soup to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
Step 8: Serve
Once the soup is cooked and thickened to your liking, serve it hot. Pair the soup with crunchy bread such as focaccia or French bread for a complete meal.
Notes
Consistency Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more milk or reducing the cooking time slightly if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Flavor Variations
You can experiment with different types of cheese or add cooked proteins like chicken or bacon for added flavor and heartiness.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Melt butter over medium-low heat to create a rich base for your dish, ensuring it doesn’t brown or scorch.
Sautéing Vegetables
Cook diced onion, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper until softened, enhancing their natural flavors and creating a flavorful foundation.
Making a Roux
Stir flour into the sautéed vegetables and cook for about a minute to form a roux, thickening the soup and adding depth.
Gradual Liquid Incorporation
Add milk gradually while stirring to prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency in your soup.
Flavoring the Soup
Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic salt, and cayenne pepper to boost flavor complexity, balancing richness with acidity and spice.
Incorporating Cheese
Stir in sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted, creating a creamy and cheesy texture that enhances the soup.
Simmering
Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the soup hot with crunchy bread like focaccia or French bread, providing a delightful contrast in texture.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for varied flavors.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with additional milk or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a lighter option.
Is it necessary to sauté the vegetables first?
Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
How can I adjust the spiciness?
You can reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.
Conclusion
The creamy cheddar soup created from these ingredients is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, offering a comforting and hearty dish that is sure to please. The blend of vegetables adds freshness while the sharp cheddar cheese delivers a rich, savory taste. Ideal for a cozy meal, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Cheddar Bake
Combine the same vegetables with cooked pasta, layered with the cheddar mixture and baked until golden for a delicious casserole.
Cheddar and Broccoli Soup
Add steamed broccoli to the soup for a nutritious twist and an added depth of flavor.
Cheesy Veggie Stuffed Peppers
Mix the cheddar soup with rice and beans, fill halved bell peppers, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Cheddar Potato Chowder
Incorporate diced potatoes along with the vegetables in the soup for a heartier chowder.
Cheddar Cheese Dip
Use the same ingredients but reduce the amount of milk to create a thick cheese dip perfect for chips or veggies.
Macaroni and Cheese
Transform the cheddar soup into a creamy macaroni and cheese by adding cooked pasta and baking with a crumb topping until bubbling and golden.
