Sharp Cheddar Soup

Forget bland, heavy soups! This vibrant, creamy Sharp Cheddar Soup recipe redefines comfort food with a lively twist. Crafted with wholesome ingredients, it promises a rich, tangy flavor and an incredibly smooth texture that dances on your palate.

Perfect for chilly evenings or a light, yet satisfying lunch, this Sharp Cheddar Soup will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to experience pure culinary joy with every nourishing spoonful of this delightful Sharp Cheddar Soup.

Why You’ll Love This Sharp Cheddar Soup Recipe

This isn’t just any cheesy soup; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and cozy warmth, proving comfort food can be both exquisite and conscious.

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: Experience the perfect balance of sharp cheddar tang, savory aromatics, and a subtle hint of spice that truly elevates this classic.
• Effortless & Quick Preparation: Whip up this restaurant-quality Sharp Cheddar Soup in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Wholesome & Adaptable: Packed with nourishing vegetables and easily customizable with plant-based alternatives, this Sharp Cheddar Soup is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: From kids to adults, everyone adores the creamy texture and rich taste of this comforting Sharp Cheddar Soup, making it a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating an exceptional Sharp Cheddar Soup begins with high-quality ingredients. Hana always emphasizes fresh, vibrant produce and choosing ingredients that truly shine. Embrace local and organic when possible!

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegan butter for a richer flavor)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced (adding a touch of sweetness and color)
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced (essential for that classic aromatic base)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is always best for a pungent kick)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free Sharp Cheddar Soup)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (Hana’s tip: use homemade broth from kitchen scraps for zero waste!)
• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (oat, soy, or cashew milk offer incredible creaminess without dairy) or whole milk for a traditional Sharp Cheddar Soup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (a secret weapon for deepening the cheesy flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated (a classic pairing with cheddar that adds warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle warmth that complements the sharp cheddar)
• 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (do NOT use pre-shredded; freshly grated melts smoother and tastes far superior in this Sharp Cheddar Soup)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish (for a pop of color and freshness)

Substitutions & Variations

One of the beauties of this Sharp Cheddar Soup is its versatility! Hana loves adapting recipes to fit dietary needs and to prevent food waste. Here are some healthy and delicious ideas to make this Sharp Cheddar Soup uniquely yours:

• For a Fully Vegan Sharp Cheddar Soup: Replace olive oil with vegan butter. Ensure your broth is vegetable-based. Use nutritional yeast (2-3 tablespoons) along with a high-quality plant-based sharp cheddar alternative for that cheesy punch. Omit dairy milk entirely.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or replace the flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed into a slurry with a little cold water before adding to thicken.
• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutritional profile by stirring in steamed broccoli florets, roasted sweet potato cubes, corn, or peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This adds vibrant colors and extra fiber to your Sharp Cheddar Soup.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a bit more heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of smoked paprika along with the aromatics.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked white beans (like cannellini) or lentils for a heartier, plant-powered Sharp Cheddar Soup.
• Anti-Waste Flavor Boost: If you have leftover roasted vegetables, puree a portion of them into the soup base before adding the cheese for extra depth and nutrients. This is Hana’s favorite way to elevate any Sharp Cheddar Soup.

One of the beauties of this Sharp Cheddar Soup is its versatility! If you’re also looking for a cheesy treat to pair with your soup, check out The Best Cheesy Chicken-Filled Crescents for a delicious addition.

Equipment You’ll Need

Gathering your tools before you start makes cooking this Sharp Cheddar Soup a breeze!

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Box grater (for grating the cheddar)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Immersion blender (optional, for extra smooth texture) or a regular blender
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s create this luscious Sharp Cheddar Soup together! Follow these simple steps for a perfect bowl every time.

1. Prepare Your Aromatics: In your large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or vegan butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, or until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
3. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, for 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for cooking out the raw flour taste and will form the base of your thick and creamy Sharp Cheddar Soup.
4. Whisk in Liquids: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once fully incorporated and smooth, slowly add the plant-based milk (or dairy milk), whisking constantly until smooth.
5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency. The soup should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
6. Seasoning Infusion: Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). This blend of seasonings truly elevates the flavor of the Sharp Cheddar Soup.
7. Melt the Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat. This is important to prevent the cheese from curdling. Gradually add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk until each addition is fully melted and incorporated before adding more.
8. Blend (Optional for Smoothness): For an extra velvety smooth Sharp Cheddar Soup, carefully use an immersion blender directly in the pot until desired consistency is reached. Alternatively, transfer portions to a regular blender (be very careful with hot liquids!) and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
9. Final Seasoning: Taste the Sharp Cheddar Soup and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
10. Serve: Ladle the hot Sharp Cheddar Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Enjoy your homemade, comforting Sharp Cheddar Soup!

Let’s create this luscious Sharp Cheddar Soup together! To complement your meal, don’t forget to prepare Delicious Ham And Cheese Quiche Made Easy for a perfect combination.

Pro Tips for Success

Hana’s kitchen secrets to ensure your Sharp Cheddar Soup is nothing short of spectacular:

• Freshly Grated Cheese is Non-Negotiable: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly, resulting in a grainy texture. Grating your own sharp cheddar ensures a silky, luxurious Sharp Cheddar Soup.
• Never Boil After Adding Cheese: High heat will cause the cheese proteins to seize and separate, leading to a curdled, oily soup. Always remove the pot from the heat before stirring in the cheese.
• Temper Your Cheese (Optional but Recommended): If you’re nervous about curdling, ladle a small amount of the hot (but not boiling) soup base into the grated cheese in a separate bowl. Stir until the cheese starts to melt, then slowly add this mixture back into the main pot.
• Taste as You Go: Seasoning is key! Taste your Sharp Cheddar Soup at various stages and adjust salt, pepper, and even a little more mustard or cayenne as needed.
• Control Consistency: If your Sharp Cheddar Soup is too thick, whisk in a little extra warm vegetable broth or milk until it reaches your preferred consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it a bit longer (before adding cheese) or make a cornstarch slurry.
• Embrace the Aromatics: Don’t rush the sautéing of the onion, carrots, and celery. This step builds the foundational flavor of your Sharp Cheddar Soup.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Enjoying your delightful Sharp Cheddar Soup for days to come!

• Storage: Allow the Sharp Cheddar Soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of vegetable broth or plant-based milk if the soup has thickened too much during refrigeration. Avoid bringing the Sharp Cheddar Soup to a rolling boil, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
• Freezing: While possible, the texture of cheese-based soups can sometimes change upon freezing and thawing, becoming a bit grainy. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently, blending briefly if needed to restore smoothness.

Enjoying your delightful Sharp Cheddar Soup for days to come! For a hearty and satisfying meal, consider making 3 Secrets For The Best Broccoli Chicken Divan to pair with your leftovers.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This rich Sharp Cheddar Soup pairs beautifully with simple, fresh accompaniments. Hana loves to balance the richness with vibrant, healthy sides.

• Crusty Bread: A warm baguette, sourdough, or whole-grain artisan bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of your Sharp Cheddar Soup.
• Fresh Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup. Think crisp lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon-herb dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Complement the savory notes with a side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. Their slight char and tender-crisp texture add another layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Garlic Bread: For a classic and indulgent pairing, serve with warm garlic bread, perhaps made with a plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly option.
• Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: A simple baked potato or sweet potato can be a wonderful, wholesome side, perhaps topped with chives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this Sharp Cheddar Soup completely vegan?

Absolutely! To create a delicious vegan Sharp Cheddar Soup, substitute olive oil with vegan butter. Ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

Replace dairy milk with a creamy unsweetened plant-based milk like oat, soy, or cashew. For the “cheese” component, use 2-3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for an umami, cheesy flavor, and incorporate a high-quality plant-based sharp cheddar alternative, which melts surprisingly well.

Why did my Sharp Cheddar Soup curdle when I added the cheese?

The most common reason for curdling is adding the cheese to a soup that is too hot or allowing the soup to boil after the cheese has been added. High heat causes the proteins in the cheese to separate, resulting in a grainy or lumpy texture.

Always remove the pot from the heat before stirring in the grated sharp cheddar cheese, and add it gradually, stirring until melted between additions. Gentle heat and patience are key for a smooth Sharp Cheddar Soup.

How can I adjust the thickness of my Sharp Cheddar Soup?

If your Sharp Cheddar Soup is too thick, simply whisk in a little extra warm vegetable broth or plant-based milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

If it’s too thin, you have a couple of options: you can gently simmer the soup (before adding cheese) for a few more minutes to reduce it slightly, or, for a quick fix, create a slurry with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk this into the simmering soup (again, before adding cheese) and cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

Sharp Cheddar Soup is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines sharp cheddar cheese with various vegetables and seasonings. Known for its rich taste and comforting qualities, this soup serves as a perfect meal option during colder months, making it a beloved choice for many home cooks. Learn more about this popular comfort food in this soup article.

Final Thoughts

This Sharp Cheddar Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a vibrant symphony of flavors crafted with love. Embracing wholesome ingredients and simple techniques, it transforms humble cheddar into an unforgettable culinary experience, proving that comfort can indeed be both delicious and conscious. Enjoy every nourishing, delightful spoonful!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

(Estimates for a vegetarian version, based on 6 servings. Values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands.)

Sharp Cheddar Soup

This vibrant, creamy Sharp Cheddar Soup redefines comfort food with a lively twist. Crafted with wholesome ingredients, it promises a rich, tangy flavor and an incredibly smooth texture that dances on your palate. Perfect for chilly evenings or a light, yet satisfying lunch, this Sharp Cheddar Soup will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour blend
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Method

 

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes.
4. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add the plant-based milk and whisk until smooth.
5. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in the Dijon mustard, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper.
7. Remove from heat and gradually add the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
8. Use an immersion blender for extra smoothness, if desired.
9. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
10. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chives or parsley.

Notes

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add warm broth or milk if thickened.