There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Canadian Cheddar Soup, especially on a chilly day. After several rounds of testing this recipe, I can confidently say it’s a satisfying blend of creamy cheese and rich flavors. Each spoonful is a reminder of cozy evenings by the fire. If you love hearty soups, don’t miss my Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup recipe!
About Canadian Cheddar Soup
This Canadian Cheddar Soup is a delightful take on pub-style comfort food, minus the lager. Testing this recipe involved discovering just the right balance of cheese and seasoning, ensuring each bowl packs a flavorful punch. It has become a staple in my household, offering warmth and heartiness without breaking the bank.
- Quick prep time makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly, with common ingredients sourced easily.
- A family favorite that pleases both kids and adults alike.
- This soup brings a taste of Canada to your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Sharp White Cheddar: Adds depth and richness; opt for freshly shredded for the best melt.
- Bacon: Provides a savory crunch and smoky flavor.
- Shallots: Deliver a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
- Chicken Bone Broth: Forms the flavorful base; substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
How to Make Canadian Cheddar Soup
- In a saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy, about 5 minutes. Let that delicious aroma waft through your kitchen!
- Set the bacon aside, leaving about a tablespoon of fat. Add the butter, then sauté the shallots and celery until they’re very soft, about 5 to 6 minutes. You’re looking for that tender texture.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Avoid boiling to keep the creaminess intact.
- Lower the heat and add the cheddar gradually, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in Worcestershire, hot sauce, and mustard, then season with pepper. Serve topped with the reserved bacon for that added crunch.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For a thick soup, add a little more flour when cooking; this creates a heartier texture.
- A common mistake is overheating the milk; take it slow to maintain creaminess.
- Try adding a dash of smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist!
- This recipe doubles easily; just adjust your pot size to accommodate.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
This Canadian Cheddar Soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove, stirring to restore creaminess. I found that leftover soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Canadian Cheddar Soup with a crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to complement the richness. For more delicious ideas, check out my Kale and Roasted Vegetable Soup or Vegetable Soup recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What type of cheese is best for this soup? Sharp white cheddar works best for depth and flavor; avoid pre-shredded cheese for the best melt.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- How do I prevent the soup from curdling? Always heat milk slowly and avoid boiling.
- Can I add vegetables to the soup? Yes, try adding steamed broccoli or carrots for extra nutrition.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Gently reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Final Thoughts
This Canadian Cheddar Soup has quickly become a cherished recipe in my kitchen. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones on a cold night, it always brings warmth. I’d love to hear how you enjoy this recipe; feel free to share your creations with me!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Kale and Roasted Vegetable Soup – a hearty vegetable blend complements creamy cheddar.
- Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup – classic comfort food paired perfectly with cheddar flavors.
- Creamy Italian Meatball Soup – rich and creamy, enhances the cheddar profile.
Canadian Cheddar Soup
Ingredients
- 3 slices bacon cut into 3/4-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup shallot finely diced
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 cups chicken bone broth
- 1.5 cups high protein milk (2% fairlife)
- 4 ounces sharp white Cheddar cheese freshly shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon grainy dijon mustard
- to taste pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a saucepan over medium heat until crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon fat in the pan.
- Add butter to the pan. Sauté shallot and celery until very soft, 5 to 6 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in broth, then milk. Bring just to a gentle simmer (be careful not to boil).
- Reduce heat to low. Add cheese in small handfuls, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Stir in Worcestershire, hot sauce, and mustard. Season with pepper. Serve topped with reserved bacon.