Classic Creamy Cheddar Cheese Soup
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Make a rich and creamy cheddar cheese soup that serves as a satisfying main dish for cold weather.
- Author: June Bellamy
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cooked potatoes, diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup homemade croutons for topping
- Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion and celery. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and pepper. Heat through, but do not boil.
- Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth.
- If using, stir in the diced cooked potatoes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with homemade croutons.
Notes
- Shred your own cheese from a block for the best melting results; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.
- For a broccoli cheddar version, add 1 cup of cooked, finely chopped broccoli florets when you add the potatoes.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little extra milk or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 32
- Saturated Fat: 19
- Unsaturated Fat: 13
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
- Cholesterol: 95